Driver Responsibilities

A. General Operation:

Operators should practice defensive driving by anticipating and observing the actions of other drivers and controlling the vehicle in a manner so as to avoid accidents. When operating the vehicle be aware that averting your eyes from the road may cause an accident. Use 'best judgment' when changing climate control settings, using the radio, or accessing other settings on the vehicle's dashboard. All state operators should perform a walk-around visual inspection of a state vehicle prior to moving. Smoking and the use of other tobacco products are prohibited in State vehicles.

B. Official Use Only:

Operators shall use fleet vehicles for official state business only. Operators guilty of misuse are subject to disciplinary action by their agency and may lose their privilege to operate a fleet vehicle. Vehicles are to be operated in a manner which avoids even the appearance of impropriety.

C. Relatives:

Family members of state employees are permitted to ride in fleet vehicles only when travel is directly related to official state business. Even then, state employees are encouraged to use personal vehicles. Transportation Officers should be consulted regarding agency-specific policies regarding this matter.

D. Hourly and Part-Time State Employees and Non-State Employees:

An agency may permit students, part-time or hourly employees, and volunteers to state service to operate or ride in fleet vehicles if on official business for the agency. Individuals not employed by the state may accompany state employees operating fleet vehicles when they have an interest in the purpose of the trip and their presence is directly related to official state business.

Non-state employees may be authorized to operate a fleet vehicle if they are performing a contracted function for the state and if such contract specifies that the state will provide such vehicle. Non-state employees, when authorized by the agency to operate a fleet vehicle, are subject to the same rules and regulations as state employees concerning the use and maintenance of the vehicle.

E. Hitchhikers and Pets:

Hitchhikers and pets are not allowed to ride in any State vehicle.

F. Cellular Phones or Handheld Devices

Cell phones, blackberries, smart-phones, or other electrical devices must be operated via a hands-free device. Any other use such as text messaging or emailing is prohibited while the vehicle is in drive and/or in motion.

G. Eating

Eating food is prohibited while driving.

H. Compliance with Motor Vehicle Laws:

It is the responsibility of each individual operator to observe all motor vehicle laws of Virginia. Operators must not knowingly operate vehicles that do not comply with legal requirements.

It is the responsibility of each agency and institution to guarantee employees possess a valid driver's license prior to authorizing use of a fleet vehicle.

All violations and fines, including parking citations, are the responsibility of the assigned driver at the time of such violation. Abuse of motor vehicle laws by an operator may result in the loss of the privilege of a fleet vehicle.

I. Alcoholic Beverages and Drugs:

Under no circumstances may a customer operate a vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating beverages, drugs or other substances. Conviction of such offenses will result in the loss of the privilege of a state vehicle. No state vehicle may be used to transport alcoholic beverages unless it is operated by an employee of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board or other law enforcement personnel in the performance of their official duties.

J. Parking and Storage of Fleet Vehicles:

Individuals and agencies are responsible for secure and safe storage and parking of vehicles. Fleet vehicles shall not be left on residential streets or highways overnight unless it is necessary due to mechanical failure or emergency, or if you have received approval from the Transportation Manager. When a fleet vehicle is parked on a municipal street it shall be the responsibility of the driver's agency to ensure payment of all parking fees and any parking fines assessed against the vehicle. The vehicle may be parked in a commercial or municipal parking facility provided the driver or the driver's agency pays parking fees. The assigned driver shall be responsible for towing fees resulting from improper parking.

K. Toll Charges:

Toll charges incurred during travel in a fleet vehicle are the responsibility of the operator and/or agency.

L. Out-of-State Travel:

Any use of a fleet vehicle outside of Virginia or the directly connected states should be discussed in advance with the Transportation Manager for verification of appropriate insurance coverage. The commercial credit card provided with each fleet vehicle is normally accepted nationwide for the procurement of fuel. Verify credit card acceptance with the commercial establishment prior to authorizing purchasing fuel.

M. Driving Under Adverse Weather Conditions:

Operators who drive a fleet vehicle during adverse weather conditions are cautioned to take extreme care to ensure the safety of driver and passengers. Repairs for any damage to the vehicles resulting from their operation during adverse weather conditions will be charged to the using agency if it is found damage was caused by the driver's negligence.

N. Responsibility for Loss or Damage of Personal or Agency-Owned Property:

James Madison University Transportation Department is not responsible or liable for loss or damage to any personal or agency-owned property or belongings transported or left in a vehicle issued by James Madison University Transportation Department. It is the responsibility of each operator to report vehicle defects to the Transportation Department.

O. Loss of Fleet Vehicle Keys:

James Madison University Transportation Department is not responsible for any costs associated with keys being lost, stolen or locked-in the vehicle. Any costs for duplicate keys, locksmith services, or damage to vehicle resulting from forced entry by any customer or associate shall be the responsibility of the agency assigned the vehicle. If locked out of the vehicle contact the Facilities Management Garage (540) 568-6364, Monday through Friday 6:30am - 4:00pm. On nights, weekends and holidays, call Campus Police (540) 568-6911.

P. Seatbelts:

Seatbelts must be used in accordance with state law. Customer is responsible for proper child seats in state vehicles.