The Tennessee Tech University Police Department is urging students to look up from their phones and stay aware of their surroundings while walking on campus due to an increase in complaints and safety concerns.
Tennessee Tech University Police Department Captain Mark Hillis said the department is working with the Tennessee Highway Safety Office to distribute public service announcements regarding pedestrian safety. Hillis said distracted walking is becoming a widespread issue across college campuses nationwide.
“Well, for one, just observation of students walking around campus looking at their phones,” Hillis said. “A lot of complaints from people that are on campus about students stepping out in front of them, a lot of times not looking up at them. And it just seems to be a way things are these days.”
Hillis said students looking at their phones could step out in front of a car. Vehicles have blind spots where a person can disappear behind the front corner of the cab, even if the driver is being observant.
“And I recommend anybody I talk to, before you step out in the road, you need to make eye contact with that driver,” Hillis said. “That way you see them, they see you, and that way you’re safe.”
Hillis said motorists must obey the 15-mile-per-hour speed limit everywhere on campus, including Dixie. Drivers need to pay attention to pedestrians and individuals on skateboards or bicycles, especially near roads bordering Tennessee Tech.
“So you need to pay attention, and if you see someone coming near the road, you need to look at them and try to make eye contact, and if you don’t, be aware that they might step out in front of you,” Hillis said.
Hillis said the department has received several complaints from motorists in the area and has seen a few students struck in recent years. Nationwide statistics show that pedestrian accidents are increasing.
“Well, we just want everybody to be safe, we want everybody to enjoy their time here at Tennessee Tech, we don’t want anybody to be hurt,” Hillis said.
Hillis said individuals should basically be aware, watch what they are doing, and remain conscious of their surroundings.