Road Safety

Coastal Carolina University encourages all road users, including motorists and bicyclists, to respect each other and the law to provide a safe transportation environment. For more information on South Carolina Bicycle Laws visit: http://pccsc.net/sc-bike-laws/.

FAQs for Bicyclists on Campus 

• Do I ride with or against car traffic? 
  Cyclists must always ride in the same direction as traffic. When riding against traffic, cyclists cannot see traffic signals and signs, and are unpredictable and less visible to drivers. Cyclists are much safer when riding with the direction of automobile traffic.

• Where am I supposed to ride on the road? 
  Generally, a bike is supposed to be driven like a car: In the road, in the right-most lane that takes you to your destination, and as far to the right in that lane as "practicable." The law requires that a rider should ride nearest the right-most side of a lane—but how far to the right may depend on conditions.

• Can I ride on a sidewalk? 
  Generally, you should not ride on the sidewalk. Sidewalks are surprisingly dangerous places to ride, as they have more hidden driveways, intersections, and surface irregularities than roads. To make matters complicated, there is no statewide law prohibiting sidewalk riding.

• I've heard something about a law that makes it illegal for a driver to yell or throw things at me while I’m riding my bike. What can I do if this happens while on the road? 
  Yes, it is a CRIME for an occupant in a car to harass a cyclist. If it happens, get the driver's license plate number and call the police from the scene—do not wait to call until you return home. Wait for the police to arrive and file a report on what happened.

• Do I have to wear a helmet? 
  Not by law, but we encourage you to always wear a helmet for safety.  

‌Prevent Bike Theft on Campus

Following a few common sense guidelines to help keep your bike safe: 

• Register your personal bike with the Department of Public Safety
• Always lock your bike with a quality U-lock. Lock your bike, even if you’re only gone for a minute.
• Using two locks is even better than using one!
• Keep a photo of your bike and a copy of its serial number
• Hide a business card or index card with your name and phone number inside the bike frame.

If your bike is stolen, report it to the CCU Police

Department of Public Safety
255 University Blvd.                     
843-349-2177
Emergency: 843-349-2911