Most students live on the campus of the University of the South and either walk or bike around the campus. There are a large number of visitors to the campus who enjoy biking and hiking in the area who add to the pedestrian and bicycle traffic already on campus. We encourage all drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists to read and become familiar with the information in this section for pedestrian and bicycle laws and responsibilities.
Pedestrian Safety and Laws
The University of the South community has wants everyone to be safe and aware when on campus. The community has students, faculty, staff, and community members who walk in and around our campus daily. We would like all who come to have a safe time. New students and visitors frequently ask about pedestrian laws in the State of Tennessee. Click here for more information and pedestrian roles on our roadways. Please make yourself aware of the pedestrian laws in our state, for motorists as well as pedestrians. It takes awareness from all for everyone to be safe.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians and Motorists:
- Attempt to cross within a crosswalk. Pedestrian Right of Way in Crosswalks - When a pedestrian is in a crosswalk drivers shall yield the right of way by slowing down or stopping. Pedestrians shall not suddenly leave the safety of a curb or place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close that it is impossible for the driver to yield. (TCA 55-8-134).
- Look both ways before crossing the roadway. Make visual contact with the driver of any on coming vehicle before proceeding to ensure they are aware of you entering into the crosswalk.
- Check again when you enter the middle portion of the roadway before completing your cross of the roadway within the crosswalk to ensure vehicles have stopped or slowed for your crossing.
- Drivers on the campus of the University of the South should use good judgement, caution, and care when operating a motor vehicle on the campus. Please be aware of your surroundings and use due care when operating a vehicle. Drivers also should be aware of and obey all traffic speed zones while on campus.
- Drivers should be attentive when operating a motor vehicle on campus and not be distracted by electronic devices in the vehicle, loud music, talking on phones, or other distractors that could lead to a collision with a pedestrian or bicyclist.
