Vehicle Policy 3.5-1

Introduction

The safety of Saginaw Valley State University students, faculty, staff and the public is a central concern for the University.  This policy has been established to support the safety of those driving or riding in University or personally owned vehicles on behalf of the University.

Driver Responsibilities

It is the driver’s responsibility to familiarize themselves with the University’s policies, rules and regulations and to operate the vehicle in a safe and responsible manner.  The following are general safety procedures which must be followed when using University vehicles or personal vehicles on University business.  These procedures are not all-inclusive and should not be construed as such.

1. A valid driver’s license must be in possession of the driver at all times when operating the vehicle.
2. The driver’s license must be the appropriate class governing the vehicle being operated.
3. Drivers are required to fully abide by local, state and federal vehicle regulations.
4. Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, which may impair a driver’s judgment.
5. Do not permit any unauthorized person to drive the vehicle.
6. Do not drive the vehicle when conditions are too hazardous for vehicle operation.
7. No smoking is allowed in University-owned, rented or leased vehicles.
8. The use of cell phones while driving is strongly discouraged.  Drivers should consider pulling the vehicle over if it is necessary to receive or make a call.  Additionally, in accordance with Michigan law, a driver is prohibited from writing, reading or sending text-based communications while operating a vehicle.
9. Drivers are personally responsible for any traffic citations.
10. Manufacturers’ vehicle load limit restrictions shall not be exceeded, and the vehicle must be loaded in a balanced manner.
11. For long distance trips, drivers are encouraged to take regular breaks.  If more than one qualified driver is on the trip, rotate drivers.  No single driver should drive more than eight hours in a 24-hour period.

Driver Authorization

All drivers of University-owned, leased or rented vehicles must comply with the requirements of this policy.

Drivers must:

1. Be at least 18 years of age (21 years for large trucks and 12-passenger vans);
2. Posses a current and valid U.S. driver’s license with two (2) years driving experience in the United States; and
3. Certify in writing (47KB)  that his/her driving record is free of the following:

a)  No more than two (2) tickets within the previous year; no more than two (2) general violations in the past three (3) years;

b)  A ticket that exceeds three (3) points;

c)  Driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence;

d)  Capital or major violations.

Any employee of the University whose job function may involve driving for the University either on a full-time or casual basis will have his/her driving record checked on an annual basis. 

Employees must notify their supervisor immediately if any of the following occur:

1. Driver’s license suspension, revocation or cancellation.
2. Driver’s license lost privileges or disqualification.

After authorization is granted, drivers must notify Campus Facilities of any violation that may occur which causes them to no longer comply with the above requirements.

Large Trucks and 12-Passenger Vans

Operators of large trucks and 12-passenger vans are required to view the University’s Driving Safety Training Video and pass the accompanying test before operating any of these vehicles for University business.  This requirement shall be completed every two (2) years.

Only employees 21 years and older are allowed to operate large trucks and 12-passenger vans.  Students are not allowed to operate these vehicles.

The use of 15-passenger vans is strictly prohibited (owned, leased or rented).

What to do in Case of an Accident

1. Remain at the scene.  Do not move the vehicle unless it presents a safety hazard to others.  If someone is hurt, call 911.  Seek appropriate medical help as necessary.
2. Report the accident immediately to the appropriate authorities.  All accidents, regardless of the extent of the damage, will require an accident report. 
3. Do not admit fault or liability.  Do not sign a statement admitting responsibility for the damages or injury.  Obtain the name and address of other drivers and witnesses.  Obtain license plate number(s) of vehicles involved as well as driver’s license number(s) of drivers involved.
4. Notify Campus Facilities of the accident (989-964-4080) or SVSU Police Dispatch (989-964-4141) if after normal business hours. 
5. Notify Business Services (989-964-4101) of the incident.  Provide a copy of the accident/incident report.

Privately-Owned Vehicles

University staff, faculty, volunteers and students using their personal vehicles on University business must carry sufficient personal auto insurance as this is the primary insurance in the event of an accident.  The University does not cover physical damage to personal vehicles.  Staff, faculty, volunteers and students are required to comply with all federal and state regulations while operating a vehicle on University business, including maintaining the applicable State-mandated minimum amount of insurance coverage.

Utility Vehicles

Motorized utility vehicles (tractors, Gators, Cushmans, golf carts, etc.) are covered by this policy and fall under the same guidelines and requirements with the addition of the following:

1. Operators are required to view the Golf Cart and LSV Safety Training Video and pass the accompanying test before operating any of these vehicles for University business.  This requirement shall be completed every two (2) years.
2. The number of riders is limited to the number of seats installed by the manufacturer.
3. The vehicle load capacity must not be exceeded; unstable loads are not allowed.
4. Use of the vehicle on public streets or elsewhere off campus is prohibited.
5. The use of headsets or cell phones is strictly prohibited.

Loss of University Vehicle Driving Privileges

Employees may lose the privilege of operating motor vehicles and be subject to disciplinary action for conduct including, but not limited to, the following:

1. Failure to report the suspension or revocation of a driver’s license.
2. Operating any motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drug or a controlled substance.
3. Failure to report a motor vehicle accident.
4. Failure to report any traffic citations for moving violations while operating a University vehicle.

Administration

The Office of the Executive Vice President for Administration and Business Affairs is responsible for the administration of this policy.