Traffic Safety & Parking

Did you know: the most common factor in traffic crashes is human behavior and poor decision-making. The ultimate goal of traffic enforcement is to achieve voluntary compliance with traffic laws and regulations—and keep you and everyone on the roads safe!

Resources for Motorists

Safety on our roadways—on campus and across the state—starts with drivers. Only YOU can prevent traffic crashes and wreckless driving. Use the following links to learn more about vehicle and moped safety:

Biking on Campus

Biking on campus is a great, cost-effective, convenient way to get around — but it’s important to know the rules of the road to keep everyone safe.  Use the following links to learn more about bicycle safety, and getting around on campus:

Pedestrians

  • Keep your eyes and ears alert. Talking on your cell phone and listening to music can distract you and reduce your ability to hear oncoming traffic.
  • Cross the street at intersections and crosswalks.
  • Dress to be seen. Wear a bright piece of clothing at all times.
  • Don’t let hats and hoods impair your peripheral vision — you should be able to see on both sides.
  • Look both ways before crossing a street or intersection.
  • If a driver appears to not see you or slow down, stay where you are and don’t attempt to cross the street.
  • Contact SAFEwalk whenever you are walking alone at night.
  • Cars and scooters must yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk.

Parking on Campus

The UW-Madison Police Department is not responsible for coordinating or enforcing parking on the UW campus.  For more information about campus parking, rules, permits, etc — visit UW Transportation Services online.