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Policy Statement

1. Purpose
   The purpose of this statement is to establish University policy regarding the safe use and operation of University owned or rented 15 passenger vans.

2. Policy
   All drivers who operate University-owned, rented or leased vehicles must comply with all State of Maryland laws, the laws of other jurisdictions in which the vehicle is operated and University policies, procedures, rules, and instructions.
   In accordance with Maryland law, drivers with six (6) or more points on their driving record shall not operate a State vehicle.
   Drivers of 15-passenger vans must be at least 21 years of age.
   Drivers of 15-passenger vans must successfully complete the Dept. of Environmental Safety 15-Passenger Van On-line Training Program and a Dept. of Transportation Services Hands-On Road Training Exercise or other approved program prior to driving a 15-passenger van.
   If a driver possesses a CDL and is 21 years of age, further training is optional.
   Cell phone use by the driver of these vans is prohibited while operating the vehicle.
   Drivers are required to perform an inspection of the 15-passenger van prior to operation. University owned, rented, or leased vehicles are not to be operated if there are mechanical or equipment concerns which effect the safe operation of the vehicle.
   Drivers of 15-passenger vans are required to limit the occupancy of a University owned, rented or leased van to 10 passengers, including the driver.
   All 15-passenger vans must be loaded front first with passengers and the weight of the cargo evenly distributed. Due to the van's high center of gravity, the risk of rollover increases and the center of gravity shifts as the number of passengers/weight increases.
   No items are to be loaded or stored on the roof of a 15-passenger van.
   For distances of 175 miles or greater, 15-passenger van drivers shall rotate drivers or take a 10-minute rest break every 3 hours.
   University Departments are responsible for ensuring that individuals driving University owned, rented or leased vehicles comply with all State of Maryland laws, the laws of other jurisdictions in which the vehicle is operated and University policies, procedures, rules, and instructions.

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