Driving safely on and around UBC campuses are essential
Driving on UBC campuses presents some challenges with pedestrians, cyclists, skateboarders, and vehicles of all types continuously present and moving through a small geographic area. Please follow the below basic safety guidelines to ensure a safe campus, and remember, the pedestrian always has the right of way.
Be prepared
- Walk around your vehicle before you drive: This will help you determine if there are any obstacles nearby that you will need to avoid.
- Prepare your vehicle before you drive: Ensure that your seat, mirrors and headrest are adjusted for you. Conduct a pre-trip inspection to confirm that everything is working properly.
- Remove ALL distractions: Put away all electronic devices, headphones/ earbuds, snacks or drinks. The only thing you should be focused on is driving safely.
- Wear your seatbelt.
Be alert
- Scan the road ahead and sides of the road for pedestrians, bicycles, and other hazards
- Before making a turn, look in all directions for pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicles in your path.
- Focus on the road. Always leave your phone alone while driving.
- Be ready to yield to pedestrians, especially when turning at intersections and near transit stops.
- Expect the unexpected, even mid-block, as pedestrians may not be crossing within a crosswalk.
Be patient
- Never pass/ overtake a vehicle that is stopped for pedestrians.
- Adhere to the campus roadway speed limit of 30 km/h at all times.
- Come to a complete stop at STOP signs.
- Always be prepared to stop for pedestrians and allow time for them to traverse intersections.
- Bicyclists and pedestrians can be unpredictable; expect the unexpected
- Allow extra time to travel across campus when classes are in session. Some intersections and crosswalks are extremely crowded during class changes. If possible, take an alternate route or wait for a less congested time.
Be responsible
- Leave sufficient space when passing vulnerable road users and take every possible precaution to avoid collision.
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, whether marked or unmarked, and at intersections when making turns.
- Respect cyclists and avoid tailgating.
- Slow down when passing bicyclists and give them at least three feet of space when passing.
- After passing a bicyclist, look over your shoulder and check your rearview mirror before moving back into the lane.
For information on Pedestrian Safety, visit Personal Safety.