#1 cause of work related fatalities. This includes truck drivers and others who

drive full time for a living as well as highway workers and others who are struck by a vehicle.

Vehicle Safety

Check for: Tires

Tread & Tire pressure Body damage or vandalism Damaged windows/exterior mirrors Obstacles left behind the vehicle

Outside/Walk Around Inspection

Adjust seat and steering wheel Check rearview mirror Adjust side mirrors Start the Engine

Look for any check engine lights Check your headlights Reverse/backup alarm

Interior Checks

Tell your supervisor of any problems. With minor problems you may still be able to use

the vehicle. Major problems will have to be corrected before a

vehicle is used.

If the damage does not compromise the safety of the vehicle you can keep using it until the vehicle can be repaired. When in doubt, take it out of service until the repairs are complete.

Vehicle Issues

Obey all traffic signs and speed limits. Do not drive the wrong way on a one way

street. (This includes mowers and utility carts)

Wear a seat belt. Everyone should have one. Never ride in the back of a truck.

Follow the Law

PAY ATTENTION! Never talk on the cell phone when driving. Don’t play loud music or be changing the

radio station while moving. Pay attention to the road, not what’s going

on around the area.

Distracted Driving

Use extra caution on left hand turns.

Why are Left Turns more dangerous? You are 8 times as many accidents occur

making a left hand turn vs. a right hand turn.

Other Driving Safety

What should be your biggest concern when driving on campus?

Pedestrians!

Know what kind of load you are carrying and drive accordingly.

Check each direction before you pull out. Use turn signals. Watch for pedestrians. Always give them

plenty of time in crosswalks and the right of way.

Be cautious around railroad tracks.

Other Driving Safety

Don’t tailgate. Avoid sudden moves or swerving. Know you blind spots. Use your horn when backing up if your

vehicle does not have a backup alarm.

Other Driving Safety

When possible: Carry the load with the tail gate up. Keep the load under the side of the truck.

Center heavy loads over the axle(s) Secure the load with rope or cords. Don’t stack material too high. Allow for more stopping time with a full load.

Loading a Vehicle

Always back in to unload when possible. It is easier to pull out than back out.

Turn your vehicle off when parking and leaving sight of it (or if you are going more than 25 feet from it).

When a second person is available they should be directing the driver to back up.

Backing & Parking

Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. (including prescription drugs) Will lead to termination.

40% of all work related accidents involve drugs or alcohol.

Never drive tired or drowsy. If you’re too tired to drive say so.

Driving Under the Influence

Drive slower in rain or snow. It takes longer to stop.

Watch for fog. (No U-turns) Check you tires (again!)

Weather Conditions

Rail Road Tracks – There are 6 railroad crossings on or adjacent to campus.

Interstate – Several Interstate accidents have resulted in vehicles coming through the fence and onto JMU property.

Unique University

You must be licensed and/or certified to drive any specialty vehicle. Utility Carts Bobcats CDL vehicles.

You must be 19 years old and have a valid driver’s license to driver any vehicle on campus.

Other Vehicles