Ohio State Reminds Students and Staff to Focus on Traffic Safety

a bustling midwestern university campus intersection featuring traditional red brick buildings, a student walking across a marked crosswalk while someone else r

AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.

Ohio State Public Safety Issues Traffic Safety Reminder

The Ohio State University Department of Public Safety has released an alert urging students, faculty, and staff to prioritize traffic safety around campus. Officials highlight the importance of following road rules, particularly as the campus sees an increasing number of e-bikes and e-scooters.

Emphasizing Shared Responsibility on Campus Roads

Monica Moll, associate vice president of public safety, noted the growing presence of alternative transportation and called for greater caution. “With an increase in e-bikes and e-scooters, exercising caution is more important than ever,” Moll said. She emphasized that whether traveling by car, walking, biking, or riding a scooter, everyone shares the responsibility of keeping campus roads safe.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

Safety officials advise pedestrians to use marked crosswalks and sidewalks, and to wait for the cross signal at traffic lights. Pedestrians are reminded to remove earbuds, look up from phones, and stay alert—especially near construction zones. These efforts are especially important as days become shorter and evenings get darker.

Guidelines for Cyclists and Scooter Riders

Bicyclists and scooter riders are advised to ride with traffic on roadways, not on sidewalks or crosswalks, and to dismount and walk through areas such as the Oval and at crosswalks. Officials recommend wearing helmets, bright and reflective clothing, and maintaining at least a three-foot distance from pedestrians. Other safety tips include:

Yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks
Staying vigilant for uneven surfaces, debris, puddles, and leaves, which may conceal potholes
Eliminating distractions—particularly avoiding texting while riding

These practices support overall bicycle safety and scooter safety on campus.

Motorists: Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions

Drivers are urged to watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter riders. The Department of Public Safety stresses the dangers of texting and driving, reminding motorists to remain attentive at all times on campus roadways and to uphold crosswalk rules.

Educational Resources and Ongoing Initiatives

Earlier this year, The Ohio State University Police Division released a series of traffic safety videos on social media. These videos cover pedestrian safety, bicycle safety, and scooter safety, aiming to educate the campus community about shared road responsibilities, helmet use, and distraction avoidance.

Continuing Commitment to Public Safety

The Ohio State University continues to promote safety for all campus travelers by providing resources and clear guidance on staying safe. By following these recommendations, members of the campus community can help reduce accidents and create a secure environment for everyone.