More than 370 traffic-related deaths occurred within the state of Iowa in 2023, according to The Cedar Rapids Gazette. Speeding and distracted driving only inflate these numbers. Unfortunately, both are common sights at Kirkwood Community College.
The speed limit on campus ranges from 15 to 25 miles per hour. Often you see cars flying by well above those speeds, particularly in the parking lot. This is extremely dangerous, particularly for walking students.
Driving above the posted speed limit poses an unnecessary danger toward students walking to and from their classes. Speeding cars may lose their ability to safely stop or react in time for crossing pedestrians.
Coming to a full stop at stop signs is another area where we can improve. It is a regular sight to see drivers breeze by posted stop signs just to save a few seconds. This can also put students and faculty at risk of being injured in the crosswalks.
Just as common, is distracted driving. Seeing a car cruising through the parking lots while the driver is texting or scrolling through social media is a far more frequent sight than it should be.
The many turns on campus only make these issues more dangerous. With a limited field of view, a late reaction time could cause injuries to students crossing the road.
If we can reduce speeding, distracted driving, and ignored traffic signs, it will lead directly to a safer campus for all who frequent Kirkwood. It is better to arrive a few minutes late to class than to cause an accident for reckless driving.
Categories: Opinion, Staff Editorials
