UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — As the number of cyclists and others traveling across Penn State campuses continues to grow, University Police and Public Safety (UPPS), Transportation Services, and the University as a whole remain committed to the safety of all, regardless of their means of travel. With the arrival of the fall semester, an increased number of students, faculty and staff will be walking, bicycling and using other personal mobility devices to get to, from and around campus.
Be visible, be predictable
When bicycling or using any other personal mobility device, all are reminded of the following essential safety reminders based on recommendations from the League of American Bicyclists:
Be visible
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Be aware of blind spots and ride where people can see you.
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Wear bright clothing.
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Use a front white light, red rear light and reflectors.
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Make eye contact with others.
Be predictable
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Obey traffic signals and stop at stop signs.
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Travel with traffic and use the rightmost lane headed in the direction you are going.
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Ride in a straight line.
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Yield to pedestrians.
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Signal turns and check behind you well before turning or changing lanes.
"Making yourself visible and staying predictable as you move across campus is key to keeping everyone safe," said Chris Robinson, sustainable transportation program manager with Transportation Services. "When you follow traffic laws and ensure others can see you, you help foster a safer environment for all who share our campus pathways."
Community members should also familiarize themselves with Penn State Policy PS03 (formerly SY16) and the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code before traveling to ensure compliance with campus and state rules regarding bikes and other mobility devices.
Failing to use bike lights between dusk and dawn, not stopping at stop signs, failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, and other moving violations can result in being ticketed. Riders ticketed on campus are eligible to have their first ticket waived by completing an online training program within 10 days of the ticket date.
By staying alert and adhering to established safety practices, everyone contributes to a safe campus community, according to Shelly Stevick, community oriented policing officer at University Police and Public Safety.
“Having everyone’s commitment to safety makes a real difference, and when you travel safely and remain aware, you protect yourself and those around you,” Stevick said.
Upcoming events
Transportation Services will host several events throughout the fall to promote safety and awareness for community members:
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Tuesday, Sept. 9, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Bicycle Registration and Safety Event, East Halls Quad Area
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Wednesday, Sept. 10, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Bicycle Registration and Safety Event, Pollock Halls Quad Area (outside Pollock Commons)
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Wednesday, Sept. 17, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Bicycle Registration and Safety Event, North Halls Quad Area
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Tuesday, Sept. 23, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Bicycle Registration and Safety Event, West Halls Quad Area
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Wednesday, Oct. 1, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Bicycle Registration and Safety Event, White Course Quad Area
University Police and Public Safety will host its annual Safety Fair from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 24, on Pollock Road in front of the HUB-Robeson Center.
At these events, Transportation Services staff will be on hand to do bicycle checks and tune-ups, and University Police will be available to answer questions related to PS03, the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code and more.
For more information on bicycle safety at Penn State, visit biking.psu.edu.