The Transportation

Policy

is posted on UMHB Website Under Human Resources / Policies

The purpose of the Transportation Policy is to

establish procedures for control & operation of vehicles

belonging to or rented/leased by the University.

A “Qualified UMHB Driver” is an individual who is

at least 21 years of age Exceptions explained later in program

has a valid driver’s license, is insurable – has a “clear” motor

vehicle record Clear record is further explained later in program

and has successfully completed the UMHB Stars driving program requirements.

Drivers may be qualified at three levels:Level 1: sedan/pick-up truck/min-vanLevel 2: 15 passenger vanLevel 3: trailer towing

Vehicles are reserved on a first-come first-serve basis using the on-line Physical Plant Vehicle Request form Posted on the Physical Plant site on My

Campus.

Employees are responsible for Pick up and return of the vehicle in good

condition with a full tank of fuel and reasonably clean.

If returning vehicles after business hours remove valuables & personal belongings, secure in its designated location, & ensure that it is locked.

Drivers using personal vehicles for university business must ensure vehicle compliance in respect to: Registration Inspection Insurance

Note: the vehicle owner’s insurance serves as primary insurance coverage.

Section IV – Use of Personal Vehicles

Employees may utilize their personal vehicle to transport students for university business with consent from their Supervisor for each occurrence.

Employees should, however, whenever possible - use university vehicles for business-related travel when transporting students or guests on official business.

In other words … the use of university vehicles is the “preferred” method of

transportation.

Section V – Transport of Students & Guests

Qualified student drivers may operate university vehicles

Only for approved university business. Only if they’re at least 21 years of age. On campus without direct supervision of a qualified employee

driver. Off-campus (i.e. supply run) within a 25 mile radius from campus

without direct supervision of a qualified employee driver. On off-campus trips beyond a 25 mile radius only when

accompanied by a qualified employee driver (who is qualified at or above the driving level held by the student driver) As a relief driver of a vehicle being driven by an employee who is the

primary driver, or As the primary driver of a vehicle traveling with one or more vehicles

with at least one of those vehicles being driven by an employee who is the primary driver.

Vehicles driven by students are limited to 65 mph (60 when towing).

Students may be 18-20 if employed by the university, in which case they Will be restricted to campus properties, or To a designated distance (for specific tasks) – on a case-by-case basis.

Section VI Use of University Vehicles by

Students

STARS Quick Reference Chart

A STARS Quick Reference Chart has been developed to assist university employees in determining driver conditions, requirements & restrictions.The chart can be viewed on the next slide, and Is posted on the Safety website under “Stars Driver Program”.

STARS Quick Reference ChartSTATUS AGE CONDITIONS REQUIREMENTS DRIVING RESTRICTIONS DURATIO

NMVR

IntervalEmployee

FTE & PTE

>21 Drive if position requires or if needed by Supervisor

Valid Texas LicenseInsurable

None Indefinite

Annual

Grad Student

AssistantPTE

>21 Drive if requested by Supervisor

Valid LicenseInsurableEmployed by UMHB

None Indefinite 

Annual

EmployeeFTE & PTE

18-20

Drive if position requires or if needed by Supervisor

Valid Texas LicenseInsurable

Limited within 25 mi. from campus

Speed limited to 65 mph

Indefinite

Annual

StudentWorker

 

18-20

Drive if requested by Supervisor  

Valid LicenseInsurableEmployed by UMHB

Restricted to campus w/o Employee Driver Supervision or

A designated distanceo case x case basiso w/o Employee Driver

Supervision Speed limited to 65 mph

Academic School

Year

AnnualUpon

request to re-

instate

Student or

Grad Student

 

>21 Drive if requested by Supervisor  

Valid LicenseInsurable(may be employed or non-employed by UMHB)

On campus w/o Employee Driver Supervision

Off Campus within 25 mi. w/o Employee Driver Supervision

Beyond 25 mi. – Employee Driver Supervision required

o As relief driver –or-o Primary driver of addl.

Vehicles Speed limited to 65 mph

Academic School

Year

AnnualUpon

request to re-

instate

Volunteer >21 Drive if requested by Supervisor  

Valid Texas LicenseInsurable

May drive with Employee Driver Supervision only

o As relief driver –or-o Primary driver of addl.

vehicles

CalendarYear

AnnualUpon

request to re-

instateOthers

 <18 Driving not

allowedN/A N/A N/A N/A

The university does not loan vehicles (incl. trailers) to employees, students or outside parties.

Privately owned vehicles may not be used to tow university trailers, and

Privately owned trailers may not be towed by university vehicles.

Section IX – Loan & Use of University Vehicles

UMHB drivers must; Be 21 years of age with a minimum of 2 years

licensed driving experience. Possess a valid driver’s license.

Employees – issued by State of Texas Students – issued by State of permanent residence.

Full-time employees 18-20 may drive if their job requires Within 25 miles (i.e. Bell County) and Speed is limited to 65mph or less

Attachment A – Use of University VehiclesSection I – Driving Requirements

Drivers will be disqualified for these offenses:

Exceeding the speed limit in excess of 20 mph Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs Offenses against a person involving vehicle

i.e. hit & run, etc. Accumulation of 6 points or more

Moving violations (i.e. speeding, running stop sign/light, etc.) are 2 points each

3 moving violations = 6 points

Important Note: Drivers are responsible for notifying their respective Supervisor and Human Resources if any conditions such as those listed above occur that

would disqualify them from driving.

Attachment A – Use of University VehiclesSection I – Driving Requirements

Drivers must Comply with all motor vehicle laws. Operate vehicles per UMHB policy – in a

manner that does not detract from public image.

Assume responsibility for any and all fines or traffic violations.

Never pick up or transport hitch-hikers. When leaving vehicle unattended

Turn vehicle off, remove keys & lock vehicle

Remove all valuables Maintain a tobacco-free environment in

vehicles. Ensure that all occupants utilize seat belts.

Attachment A – Use of University VehiclesSection I – Driving Requirements

Drivers must: Never use electronic devices while driving

Including cell phone calls, texting, emails, electronic games, GPS, laptops, etc.

Drivers must stop vehicle in a safe location or allow a passenger to assist when using electronic devices.

Operate vehicle with adequate rest i.e. 6 to 8 hrs. in previous 24hrs

For road trips: Take at least 15 minute rest breaks every 4

hours. Drive no more than 10 hour in 24 hour period. Avoid driving between 2:00 am & 6:00 am.

Attachment A – Use of University VehiclesSection I – Driving Requirements

Drivers must Avoid driving in hazardous conditions, such

as Ice (any icing) Heavy Snow Heavy rain High winds Dense fog

Drive with headlights on at all times.

Attachment A – Use of University VehiclesSection I – Driving Requirements

At least two approved drivers are required for each vehicle for trips of 400 miles or more from the university Exception; one driver may be utilized if

the trip is broken into one or more legs with overnight stops.

Important Note: All trips beyond a 25 mile radius from the university require a qualified university employee as the primary driver in charge for the trip.

Attachment A – Use of University VehiclesSection II – Trip Requirements

Two UMHB documents are provided for all vehicles:

Accident form Insurance card

15 Passenger Vans; found in notebook issued with vans

Sedans/Pickups/Mini-vans; found in glove-box

Attachment BAccidents

Drivers must report accidents or damage to vehicles to:

The appropriate law enforcement agency (immediately).

The employee’s immediate supervisor (asap).

If involved in an accident the driver must: If possible & safe to do so, move vehicle out of

flow of traffic. Seek immediate medical aid for any injuries. Collect information on other involved parties – use

the Accident Form. Complete the Accident Form and submit to the

Director of Safety (Sanderford / Campus Planning Suite) as soon as is possible.

Attachment BAccidents

Drivers, Supervisors and/or Department Heads should:

In the case of serious accidents resulting in injuries Notify Human Resources within 4 hours to set up post-

accident drug and alcohol testing. After business hours, contact Campus Police for assistance.Note: A serious accident is one involving injury to any party that requires

medical treatment beyond basic first aid and/or accidents that result in significant damage to 3rd party property.

Personnel involved in an accident should: Not make statements admitting fault. Refer all questions from lawyers, insurance providers, etc.

to the V.P. for Business & Finance or the Director of Safety; V.P. for Business & Finance: Jennifer Ramm Director of Safety: Larry Pointer

Note: Post-accident Motor Vehicle Record checks may be conducted by the Safety Department.

Attachment BAccidents

15 Passenger Van-Specific Requirements Speed is limited to 65mph at all times. Speed when towing trailers is limited to 60 mph. Vans should be loaded front to rear. Cargo is limited to behind the rear seat to the

bottom of windows only.

Attachment DVan Requirements

All UMHB vehicles are equipped with: First Aid Kit Jumper cables Emergency reflector kit Fire extinguisher Flashlight

Attachment DVan & Trailer Requirements

Driving Safety

Prior to driving – drivers should conduct a walk-around of the vehicle and check:

Tires should Be properly / evenly inflated Have adequate tread and free from defects

Lights Wipers Fluids – oil & coolant – are checked during

vehicle servicing However, for extended road trips (i.e. a week or

more) drivers should try to check or have fluids checked prior to return trip if possible.

Prior to driving – make appropriate adjustments:

Seat Mirrors

Adjust side-view mirrors until the rear corners of the vehicle disappear

Steering wheel Radio & AC/heat controls

If you have a right-seat passenger enlist them help manage these items.

Seat belt use is required for all occupants at all times – on & off-campus – any time the vehicle is in motion.

Required by University Policy and Texas law.

Drivers should: Drive with both hands on wheel

At “10 & 2” or “9 & 3” Use 9&3 if hands/wrists are over the air bag at 10&2

Yield “Right of Way” When required of course, and When necessary to avoid an accident

Obey traffic signs & signals Reduce vehicle speed for conditions such as

wet roads, reduced visibility and for school/construction zones as required and when prudent

As vehicle speed increases – a

driver’s effective field of vision is reduced

From 180 degrees while stopped – to – 40 degrees

at 60 mph.

As vehicle speed increases –stopping distances increase.

About 63 ft. @20mphOver 300 ft. @70mph

Railroad crossings 15 passenger vehicles are notrequired to stop at railroad crossings Drivers – of all vehicles - should

Slow down and ensure tracks are clear Stop if railroad crossing barriers and signals are

activated Never go around barriers or race to beat them!

Drivers must observe min. following distances

2 second rule under normal conditions - i.e. good visibility – dry roads

4 second rule – for other than normal conditions – i.e. Reduced visibility due to rain, fog, dust, smoke, etc. Wet or slippery roads due to rain, ice, etc.

To determine distance Observe the vehicle ahead pass a “landmark” (road

sign, road kill, etc.) Count off seconds – if you’ve reached the landmark

before two seconds – you’re following too close.

Remember the “Move it Over” rule for emergency vehicles

With lights activated on your side of the roadway. Drivers must move a minimum of one lane away, or Slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit. Slow down to 5 mph is speed limit is below 25 mph.Note: Emergency Vehicles includes law enforcement, fire/rescue,

ambulances, and wreckers.

Never drive while impairedDrivers can be impaired due to use of : Alcohol Drugs – illegal, prescription, & non-prescription

(over-the-counter) medications And Fatigue

Adequate rest is absolutely mandatory!

Don’t drive on wet or slippery roads using cruise control.

Vehicle can hydro-plane and/or suddenly accelerate causing loss of control

“Wet roads” includes; rain, snow, slush, ice, etc. (anytime roads are wet or slippery)

Don’t panic if your wheels drop off the shoulder or a tire blow-out occurs

Remain calm Maintain straight course Release gas pedal Slow/brake carefully and Stop safely

Never drive through water over flooded roads.

“Turn Around - Don’t Drown”

Turn Around – Don’t Drown!!!

Pickup Truck Safety:• Avoid carrying passengers in bed• If ever necessary (i.e for work detail)

▪ Passengers must be at least 18 yrs. old, and▪ Must remain seated in bed at all times

Cart Operators must▪ Be 18 years of age and possess a valid State

driver’s license▪ Obey all traffic laws, signals, and signs.▪ Use hand signals if cart not equipped with

lights ▪ left turn, right turn, stop▪ Yield to pedestrian & vehicle traffic.▪ Observe cart capacities.▪ One person per seat▪ Limbs within confines of cart▪ No cargo hanging outside cart

Cart Operators must▪ Operate carts on UMHB streets only ▪ As much as is possible .▪ Not operate carts on sidewalks and grass.▪ On sidewalks only if absolutely necessary to perform

duties (i.e. deliver cargo or personnel to a building).▪ Remove key and set parking brake when

unattended.▪ Use caution pulling out of parking spaces

with limited visibility.

Carts must be equipped with strobe lights, and headlights, tail & brake lights, & turn

signals if operated during dark hours.

The next 5 slides are to be viewed by those that

Need to be qualified to driver 15 passenger vans, and are

Experienced driving 15 passenger vans –or equivalent (i.e. SUV, Suburban, Explorer, or other large vehicles).

Are 15 Passenger Vans a risk to drive?

15 Passenger Van Facts: You have 3 times greater rollover risk when

carrying more than 10 passengers, and A 5 times greater risk when going over 50

mph 75% of fatalities in 15 p.v. accidents in

recent years were not restrained (no seat belts)

Vehicle stability is affected by Design – wheelbase/width/length/height Loading – center of gravity increases with

passengers/cargo Conditions – roads/weather/wind

COG – no load

COG – loaded

COG – no load

The COG – Center of Gravity – moves upward as a van is loaded.Weight of 15 passengers @150lbs. each = @2,250lbs. in upper half of vehicle.

Results in vehicle becoming more top-heavy as load is increased.

15 Passenger Van Safety Tips: Observe passenger capacities

One person per seat belt Load from front to back

Observe cargo capacities Behind rear seat To bottom of window only

Van Safety Tips: Check clearances prior to backing or

maneuvering Use spotters if necessary

Reduce speed for conditions Traffic Visibility Wet roads Icing

▪ avoid driving until roads are cleared by transportation authorities. Zones – observed reduced speed limits – i.e.

▪ School zones▪ Construction zones

The next 2 slides must be viewed by those that Need to be qualified to tow trailers for the

university, and Are experienced & proficient in towing

trailers. Must have sufficient knowledge & experience to

Connect and disconnect trailers, Properly load trailers, Effectively maneuver trailers (backing, etc.).

Note: the university does not teach personnel to manage and tow trailers – therefore, experience is required to become trailer qualified.

Trailer Towing

Drivers must possess experience & proficiency to Connect & disconnect trailers Properly load trailers Properly & effectively handle trailers while

▪ Backing▪ Maneuvering▪ Emergencies

Vehicle speed limited to 60mph. Load capacity of trailer, hitch & vehicle towing

capacity must never be exceeded.

Trailer Towing

Drivers must Verify ball-hitch size (must match) Ensure hitch is “latched” (& locked) Ensure all lights are operative

Tail & Brake lights Turn Signals

Ensure that safety chains are in place, secure, & proper length

Ensure that tires have adequate tread, pressure & clearance

Trailer Towing

Contact Larry Pointer via email at lpointer@umhb.edu to request the Stars Quiz for the driving level needed.Level 1 – Sedan, Pickup, Minivan, SUVLevel 2 – 15 Passenger VanLevel 3 – Trailer Towing

Call if you have questions.Larry Pointer, Safety Director(254) 295- 8635