Campus Safety Notices

Dear Members of the Drexel Community,

In response to recent auto accidents in University City that have tragically claimed the lives of pedestrians crossing Market Street, Public Safety is sharing the following guidance on pedestrian and motorist safety.

Traveling by Foot:

The following tips can help keep you safe no matter where you’re headed:

• Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available. If no sidewalk is available, walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic.
• There is a lot of construction around campus, so be mindful of sidewalk closures and follow all posted signage directing you to safe pathways.
• Cross within crosswalks and follow “walk” signs when applicable, and never assume a driver sees you. Indicate your intention to cross and wait for vehicles to stop or drivers to acknowledge that they see you.
• On streets with multiple lanes in each direction, be aware of what drivers in both near lanes are doing. If one driver is allowing you to cross, the other might not see you.
• Always be visible. At night, wear reflective materials, apply reflective tape and/or use a flashlight.
• Stay alert, keep your head up and walk with confidence. If you’re listening to music, use only one earbud.
• When possible, walk in pairs or groups, especially at night. Request a walking escort 24/7 through the Drexel Guardian App or by calling 215.895.2222.

Traveling by Bike:

The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia has a wealth of resources to help you understand the rules of the road for cyclists in Philadelphia. Drexel Public Safety also has the following tips:

• Make use of protected bike lanes whenever possible.
• Always wear a helmet.
• Slow down when approaching a crosswalk or intersection. Watch for pedestrians and be prepared to yield to them.

Traveling by Vehicle:

Drivers have a huge role to play in making sure our roads are safe for everyone — pedestrians, bike riders, drivers and passengers.

• Slow down when approaching a crosswalk or intersection. Watch for pedestrians and be prepared to yield to them.
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks - the law requires motorists to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks at signalized and non-signalized intersections.
• Travel at a prudent speed. Don’t try to beat the light.
• Watch for mid-block crosswalks. Pedestrians have the right-of-way in mid-block crosswalks, so yield to them.
• Expect the unexpected - look out for children who may dart out between cars or buses or cross mid-block without a crosswalk.
• Drivers on streets with multiple lanes in each direction should be aware that pedestrians may be crossing all lanes.

For detailed safety tips and rules regarding aggressive driving, distracted driving, pedestrian safety, work zone safety, and much more, please visit PennDOT’s website.

Sincerely,

Mel Singleton

Vice President/Chief of Police

Department of Public Safety