Have you ever been walking to class, and all of a sudden, someone on an electric scooter comes speeding by at what feels like 100 mph? Or maybe you were just taking a peaceful walk to clear your mind and were almost trampled by a speedy scooter. Well, if you have, you’re not alone.

Throughout my time at University Park, I have noticed that electric scooters have become increasingly popular. With this trend comes an issue: Many students on electric scooters travel way too fast and don’t pay attention to their surroundings.

As someone who navigates campus by foot, I have almost been hit by one of these vehicles several times. While I’m lucky and haven’t been in an accident, I have heard and witnessed many collisions between pedestrians and scooter riders.

When walking on campus, I always find myself looking back to make sure that no one is coming up behind me at a dangerous speed. The number of times I have witnessed riders speeding by, weaving in and out of traffic, inches away from hitting or grazing pedestrians, is insane.

Driving recklessly on a campus full of people can not only put pedestrians in danger, but it can also put the rider in danger. Speeding through stop signs, crosswalks, and riding on the sidewalks can cause serious injuries.

I understand that accidents happen, but there is no reason to be traveling that fast on an electric scooter or any vehicle. Whether it’s an e-bike, an electric scooter, a traditional bicycle, a skateboard, or any other vehicle, riders should take precautions and follow the university’s guidelines and regulations on transportation.

I’m not hating on electric scooters or anyone who rides them, I just simply think that slowing down can keep everyone safer. If you ride a scooter or any vehicle on campus, consider what could happen if you caused an accident.

I get that we all have places to be, and it can be challenging getting from one side of the campus to the other for class, but nobody should have to fear they are going to be hit or injured while walking on campus.

To everyone who rides an electric scooter on campus, I ask and encourage you to please slow down, stay alert, and be safe the next time you’re riding on campus.