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UPD increasing patrols during Distracted Driving Awareness Month

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Throughout the month, the WVU Police Department ( https://police.wvu.edu/) will increase officer patrols in high pedestrian traffic areas across campus to ensure drivers obey traffic laws.

“One moment of distraction while driving can change everything,” said Chief Sherry St. Clair. “Our team is committed to educating our campus community about driver and pedestrian safety to make the road a safe place for everyone.”

UPD shares the following tips for all Mountaineers to remember while traveling.

Driver Safety

  • Obey all traffic lights and signals. Reduce your speed for yellow traffic lights – running a red light is never worth the risk.
  • Watch for pedestrians everywhere at all times, and always yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk.
  • Use extra caution when driving in high pedestrian traffic areas, during inclement weather, while backing up and while driving at night.
  • When turning or entering a crosswalk area, slow down and be prepared to stop.
  • Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol or while otherwise distracted, such as using a cell phone or wearing headphones.

Pedestrian Safety

Walk on sidewalks when possible. If a sidewalk is not available, walk facing traffic at a safe distance.
  • When crossing a roadway, utilize marked crosswalks when available and obey all traffic laws, signals and signs. If a crosswalk is not available, cross in a well-lit area where you have a clear view of traffic. Be patient and wait to cross until you have ample time to cross safely.
  • Assume drivers do not see you. When crossing a roadway, assume drivers are not going to stop and ensure that all vehicles, including ones that are turning, are aware you intend to cross.
  • Heads up, phones down. Put the phone down while walking. Turn down the volume on headphones or remove headphones entirely and refrain from talking on the phone while crossing a street to limit distractions.
  • When walking at night, wear bright colors and stay in well-lit areas.
  • Don’t step into traffic from behind an obstruction         

    To learn more about UPD, visit the Police website . Download the LiveSafe  app and turn on push notifications for direct and discreet two-way communication with police.