Be safe and be seen: Tips for cyclists, scooters and pedestrians
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 21, 2026) —The University of Kentucky embraces all forms of transportation on campus, from walking, to cycling to scooting. There’s a lot going on out there. Below are some tips to keep in mind, especially as daylight hours start to shorten.
Construction areas can also pose some challenges; these zones can generate visibility issues, and even sidewalk or bike lane debris and/or closures. It’s important to stay alert in these areas.
Cyclists and e-scooters
- Yield to pedestrians. Slow down and scoot over to pass someone on foot and give audible warning. Dismount to pass when sidewalks are crowded or narrow.
- Don’t ride against the direction of traffic and obey all traffic signs and signals.
- Bikes and scooters are not allowed on elevated pedestrian walkways and inside buildings.
- Use front and rear lights in low-visibility conditions. Bright or reflective clothing is also recommended, as are helmets and other safety gear.
- Remove headphones or ear buds when riding on and near campus.
- Be predictable. Make eye contact with motorists and use hand signals to indicate your intentions.
- Stop at intersections and always use the crosswalk. Look both ways before crossing, even if you have the crosswalk light.
The university has a formal policy outlining correct usage of bikes and e-scooters. Read the policy and review additional e-scooter safety information.
Pedestrians
- Always use crosswalks and look both ways, even if you have the pedestrian signal.
- Look up from your phone when crossing busy intersections and make eye contact with motorists to ensure you’re seen.
- Watch for turning vehicles at intersections.
- Stay vigilant around construction zones, as traffic patterns often change in these areas.
- Wear bright clothing at night or in low visibility conditions.
Questions or concerns?
If you have construction-related safety concerns, call the university’s Work Control Center at 859-257-3844 or 859-257-2830. For questions about cycling or e-scooters, email UK Transportation Services. For parking, traffic and transit updates, sign up for notices and follow UK Transportation Services on X @UKParking and on Instagram.
As the state’s flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders — placing students at the heart of everything we do — and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and healthcare. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It's all made possible by our people — visionaries, disruptors and pioneers — who make up 200 academic programs, a $1.02 billion research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus.