Michigan State University
Move Safe: MSU

Making Moves, Safely.

About Your safety matters

You’ve got places to go and people to see.

We’ve got a handy guide for moving safely on campus.

We get it: When you’ve got three exams, a term paper and a big game coming up, getting around campus is probably the last thing on your mind. But when it comes to campus transportation, we’re all in this together. When one person makes smart choices, we all move a little safer. That’s why our top priority is keeping every Spartan safe and healthy when it comes to getting around on campus.

At the Michigan State University Police, we believe that most everything goes more smoothly if we can all do it right the first time. (And, a little-known fact: Giving you a ticket is the last thing we want to do.) Know where you can park, and you’ll avoid that pesky paper under your wiper. Hit that full-stop at a stop sign, and you’ll protect that group on the crosswalk. Yep, life is easier (and safer) when we take the time to get it right. That’s why we’ve outlined some simple steps to help keep yourself and others safe when getting around campus.

Not sure who has the right-of-way at a crosswalk? Need to know where to park your moped? Looking for clarification on what, exactly, you’re supposed to say when passing someone on your bike? Don’t worry. We’ve got you. Whether you’re new on campus or just need a refresher, this guide will get you started on the right foot. (Or wheel.)

Move

Walking

Or, more like “vigorous power walking” when you’re late for class.

First, the walk signal is there for a reason. Always obey signs and signals, cross streets only at crosswalks, and look for cars and bicycles in all directions (including those turning left or right). When it’s time to cross, you might even get to hear the sweet, sweet sound of “Farm Lane walk sign is on.” It’s like poetry to Spartans.

Watch for cars entering/exiting parking lot driveways and bikes on sidewalks or bike lanes. Stay in the sidewalk pedestrian area and stay out of the bike lanes.

Between cute dogs and street performers, it’s all too easy to get distracted and take your eyes off the road. Keep alert at all times, even when you’ve got headphones in.

Never assume a biker or driver sees you. Make eye contact with them as they approach you to make sure you are seen before crossing in front of them. Try to be visible at all times; if you’re walking at night, bright clothing and reflective materials will help others see you.

Biking

Kick it into high gear.

First and foremost, wear a bicycle helmet. Trust us – it’s for your own good. Check your equipment before riding. Inflate those tires, check the brakes, and try to make yourself visible with lights and bright clothing. Just because you can see a driver doesn’t mean the driver can see you.

Even if you can ride a bike with no handlebars, that doesn’t mean you should. Stow books and other items (including your phone) in a basket or backpack so your hands maintain control of the bicycle. And, no – biking one-handed with a coffee in the other is not a good idea.

Next, bike lanes. Always use bike lanes or designated bike paths. University ordinances prohibit riding on sidewalks, so share the road when bike lanes aren’t available. Bike riders have a legal right to ride in the road. Go with the flow of traffic, not against it; ride on the right side of the road, in the same direction as other vehicles. Obey all traffic laws, and remember that bikes need to follow the same rules as cars.

Yield to pedestrians and stay alert. Watch for anything that could make you lose control of your bike. When turning left or right, always look behind you and signal before making turns. When passing or approaching someone or something on the left, say out loud, “On the left.” (We promise it’s not weird. Everyone is doing it.)

Driving

You’re in the driver’s seat.

When you’re behind the wheel, look out for pedestrians and cyclists at all times.

Use extra caution when driving at night or in bad weather. Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk. Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, and yield to pedestrians and cyclists when turning.

Remember: Drivers must share the road with bicycles, even when marked bike lanes are not available. University ordinances prohibit biking on sidewalks.

And please, for your fellow Spartans and yourself: Get off your phone when you’re driving.

Scooters & Mopeds

Put the pedal to the metal — with a helmet on.

If you drive a moped, you’re required to follow the same traffic rules as cars. In Michigan, a moped operator under the age of 19 must wear a state-approved helmet when driving a moped. However, the use of a helmet by any moped operator is recommended for safety.

Motorized moped-type vehicles may no longer park at bicycle racks. Parking spaces designated specifically for moped use are available across campus.

All moped operators (faculty, staff, and students) need to register their moped with the MSU Parking Office. We’ll even give you a cool sticker.

Checklist

Ready to get moving? Pump the brakes and run through this quick checklist first: