Crime Prevention

Pedestrian, Scooter and Bicycle Safety

The University of South Florida is home to thousands of pedestrians, cyclists, scooter riders and motorists every day. Whether you're walking to class, riding an e-scooter, biking across campus or driving between destinations, safety depends on everyone understanding the rules of the road and respecting one another.

Bicycles, e-bikes and e-scooters are a popular way to travel across campus. While convenient, they can also create safety risks when riders travel too fast, ignore traffic controls or fail to yield to pedestrians. USF Police encourages all community members to remain alert, follow traffic laws and make safe choices whenever traveling on campus.

Crosswalks are designed to help pedestrians move safely through campus, but everyone has a role in preventing crashes and close calls.

For Pedestrians

• Use marked crosswalks whenever possible.
• Stop at the curb and look left, right and left again before crossing.
• Make eye contact with approaching drivers whenever possible.
• Avoid distractions such as texting, scrolling or wearing headphones at high volume while crossing.
• Never assume that drivers, bicyclists or scooter riders can see you or will stop in time.
• Cross only when it is safe to do so and obey all traffic signals and pedestrian signs.

For Drivers

• Slow down when approaching crosswalks.
• Yield to pedestrians who are crossing or preparing to cross.
• Be especially attentive during class change periods when pedestrian traffic is at its highest.
• Never pass a vehicle that has stopped at a crosswalk.
• Eliminate distractions and stay focused on the road.

For Scooter and Bicycle Riders

• Reduce your speed as you approach crosswalks.
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and on shared-use paths.
• Be prepared to stop suddenly when pedestrian traffic is heavy.
• Use a bell or audible signal when approaching pedestrians from behind.
• Walk your bike or scooter through crowded areas when necessary.

E-scooters provide a fast and convenient way to travel across campus, but riders are vulnerable to serious injuries during crashes.

Ride Responsibly

• Wear a properly fitted helmet whenever possible.
• Obey traffic signs, signals and campus regulations.
• Keep both hands on the handlebars.
• Stay alert and watch for pedestrians, vehicles and roadway hazards.
• Ride at a safe speed for conditions.
• Slow down in congested areas and around residence halls, academic buildings and student gathering spaces.
• Never carry passengers unless the scooter is specifically designed for more than one person.
• Never ride under the influence of alcohol or other substances.

Bicycles are considered vehicles and must follow many of the same rules that apply to motorists.

Safe Riding Tips

• Wear a helmet and make sure it fits properly.
• Use front and rear lights when riding at night or during periods of reduced visibility.
• Obey stop signs, traffic signals and campus traffic controls.
• Ride predictably and signal turns when possible.
• Stay aware of pedestrians, vehicles and other cyclists.
• Maintain your bicycle to ensure brakes, tires and lights are in good working condition.
• Secure your bicycle with a quality lock when parked.

USF Police also encourages bicycle registration to help recover lost or stolen bikes and scooters.

Pedestrians are the most vulnerable roadway users. Simple precautions can make a significant difference.

Stay Alert

• Keep your head up and stay aware of your surroundings.
• Avoid walking while distracted by mobile devices.
• Use sidewalks and designated pathways whenever available.
• At night, choose well-lit routes and wear reflective or light-colored clothing when possible.
• Be cautious when stepping into roadways, parking lots and drive aisles.

The Tampa campus is a shared environment where pedestrians, bicyclists, scooter riders and drivers interact constantly. Courtesy and patience help prevent injuries and create a safer experience for everyone.

Remember:

• Pedestrians should stay alert and use designated crossing areas.
• Bicycle and scooter riders should yield to pedestrians and ride at safe speeds.
• Drivers should expect high pedestrian activity and proceed cautiously throughout campus.

A moment of attention can prevent a lifetime of regret.

To report a safety concern or learn more about crime prevention and property registration programs, contact the USF Police Department. Together, we can keep USF safe for everyone.