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|  | Safe Driving on CampusMany of us operate vehicles on campus—whether commuting to and from work or as part of our daily responsibilities, such as maintenance or security. Practicing safe driving is essential to protect pedestrians, cyclists, and fellow drivers in our often busy campus environment. |
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| Safety tips
- Inspect your vehicle before driving it to ensure it's safe to operate
- Wear your seatbelt, whether as a driver or passenger
- Maintain proper speeds and obey traffic signs and signals
- Reduce speed and exercise caution in parking lots, garages, and during hazardous road conditions (e.g., rain or snow)
- Increase your visibility by turning on the headlights in dark conditions and inclement weather
- Stay alert in construction zones and obey directions from flaggers
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|  | Distracted drivingAccording to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving caused 324,819 injuries and claimed 3,275 lives in 2023. Avoid the activities below to stay focused when driving:
- Using mobile devices (e.g., texting)
- Eating and drinking
- Applying cosmetics (i.e., makeup)
- Searching for lost or dropped items
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| Share the road
- Stop and yield to pedestrians at crosswalks
- Watch for cyclists and micromobility users (e.g., e-scooters, e-skateboards) and maintain safe distances
- Be patient and drive defensively by anticipating potential hazards and being prepared to react
- Yield to emergency vehicles (e.g., fire department, police)
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| University vehiclesIf you drive a University vehicle, you are expected to complete a Safe Driver Application. A motor vehicle record (MVR) check is part of the process, and you may be subject to completing a driver safety course.
Review the Safe Driver Program to learn more and contact your supervisor or Risk Management at risk@northwestern.edu with any questions. |
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| Do you want to learn more? |
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