Background Image Alternative Text: Fall Leaves and Back Path by the Union and YMCA Building on MSU Campus

Look Up & Look Out

Stay alert and be aware when driving, cycling, or walking on campus

Safety Tips

Cyclists

  • Ride on the right in the same direction of traffic.
  • Use hand signals when turning or stopping.
  • Wear a hard-shell helmet when you ride.
  • Be alert. Watch for car doors opening and cars pulling out.
  • Avoid riding on sidewalks unless the roads are unsafe.
  • Stop at intersections. Follow the same rules as vehicles, stopping at red lights and stop signs.
  • Be visible. Wear bright colored clothing and use lights at night.
  • Conduct an ABC Check: Check there’s enough AIR in the tires, the BRAKES work properly, and your CHAIN is oiled and on securely.
  • Understand the various bike facility types and rules.
  • Follow Traffic Laws & University Bicycle Rules:
    • Cyclists should use extreme caution and slow down or walk their bicycles when interacting with pedestrians.
    • Do not ride on sidewalks or pedestrian-only areas.
    • Bicycles using campus roadways operate with the same rules as automobiles.
    • Bike rack use on campus is mandatory.
    • Bikes locked or left anywhere else besides a bike rack are subject to the lock being cut and the bike being impounded by University Police.

*Parking and Transit Services offers free bike registration for your personal bicycle. 

Drivers

  • Always follow traffic laws.
  • Watch for pedestrians and give them the right-of-way.
  • Expect pedestrian traffic to increase between classes.
  • Expect vehicle traffic to increase during class changes and at the beginning and end of the business day.
  • Use caution when driving through parking lots. Pedestrians may appear from behind cars.
  • Do not get in a rush. Give yourself plenty of time when driving on campus.
  • Pay attention. Put away your phone and other distractions when driving.

Pedestrians

  • Use marked crosswalks to cross streets.
  • Stop at the curb, look both directions, and make sure traffic is clear or has stopped before crossing.
  • During rainy weather allow extra time and distance for a vehicle to stop.
  • Wear bright-colored clothes so vehicles can see you at night or during rainy weather.
  • Avoid distractions, such as checking your phone or wearing headphones when walking near traffic.

Scooters

  • Wear appropriate safety gear.
  • Be alert. Watch for pedestrians and vehicles.
  • Be visible. Wear bright-colored clothing and use lights at night.
  • Walk your scooter across roadways in marked crosswalks.
  • Walk your scooter in pedestrian and crowded areas.
  • Scooters are not allowed to be ridden in buildings or parked outside building doors. Scooter parking is in designated places only.
  • Do not lock your scooter to any structures or facilities except campus bike or scooter racks.

Facility Type Definitions

image of map legend of campus for cyclists

More Information

Campus Safety Tips

MSU Traffic and Parking Rules & Regulations