I was almost killed again. Today. For the fourth time this semester. I guess I'm getting used to it -- after all, I have the most dangerous job on campus. I'm a pedestrian.

Whenever I cross the street on campus, I'm risking my life.

To my surprise, I find that most students are ignorant to the laws governing pedestrian right-of -way.

First, a pedestrian only has right-of-way if he/she is IN THE CROSSWALK. Most people believe pedestrians always have the right-of-way. You must be in a crosswalk or you can literally be cited if you are struck by a motorist.

Second, if there is a pedestrian signal (WALK/DON'T WALK) you must obey it. Even if you are in the crosswalk, by crossing against the signal, you are at fault if struck.

Finally, Pennsylvania law includes a comment about right-of-way that governs some cases. The pedestrian is at fault if, even in the crosswalk, he/she "suddenly" steps out.

I hope this brief explanation helps out the thousands of pedestrians on campus. And if you drive, please remember to watch out for us. Four near-deaths in five weeks is enough.