New Mexico State University (NMSU) is emphasizing the importance of crosswalk safety on campus. The NMSU Emergency Planning Committee has provided guidelines for pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers to ensure the safety of all individuals on campus.
Pedestrians are advised to always use marked crosswalks and obey pedestrian signals. It is crucial to look left, right, and left again to ensure the road is clear before crossing. Additionally, pedestrians are encouraged to make eye contact with drivers to ensure they are seen before crossing. It is also important to exercise caution when walking past stopped vehicles, ensuring all lanes are clear before proceeding. The committee reminds individuals that bicyclists are not considered pedestrians unless they are walking their bikes.
Bicyclists are reminded to yield to pedestrians and follow vehicular traffic signals and laws. They are also encouraged to exercise extra caution when transitioning between bike paths, roads, and sidewalks as their actions may be unpredictable to drivers and pedestrians.
Drivers are urged to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections. They should come to a complete stop if pedestrians are crossing or preparing to cross. It is important for drivers to be prepared to stop at all marked crosswalks and reduce speed in areas with crosswalks. Drivers should wait until pedestrians have crossed at least one lane past their current lane before resuming travel. Passing another vehicle that has stopped or is slowing down at a crosswalk is strictly prohibited. In addition, drivers are reminded not to engage in distracted driving by texting or talking on their mobile phones.
NMSU also highlights the importance of safety training for individuals operating utility carts on campus. These small utility service vehicles, including golf carts, turf vehicles, and small rough terrain vehicles, are allowed on controlled access areas and streets of the campus. However, their operation on sidewalks poses a risk to pedestrians. Therefore, all individuals operating utility carts must undergo special training to prevent incidents and potential injuries.
To learn more about campus driving best practices, individuals can visit the NMSU Safety website at [link]. Specific information about utility cart requirements can be found at [link]. For additional information about NMSU campus safety trainings and programs, individuals are encouraged to visit the NMSU Police website.
In conclusion, NMSU is committed to promoting crosswalk safety on campus. By following these guidelines, pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers can contribute to a safer environment for everyone at NMSU.