Acceptable Use

1.      The use of state vehicles is restricted to official state business activities involving the direct duties of the state employee.

2.      Drivers must be designated faculty and staff and holders of a valid driver’s license; drivers must be at least 21 years of age.

3.      Drivers must adhere to all traffic laws and operate the vehicle in a safe manner.

4.      Driver assumes all responsibility for any and all fines and traffic violations associated with his/her use of the state vehicle.

5.      Do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

6.      Vehicles may not carry more passengers than the vehicle is designated to carry.

7. Always use seatbelts and require all occupants to do likewise in accordance to state laws.

8.      Do not permit unauthorized individuals to drive vehicles.

9.      Do not transport passengers who are not on official University business (e.g. hitch hikers, family members, or friends).

10.  Vehicles are inspected by University Automotive Services before release for use.  It is the operator’s responsibility to monitor fluid levels, safety systems, and make note of mechanical items in need of repair.  Items needing attention must be reported on the vehicle request form upon return.

11.  Vehicles must be returned clean and free of debris.  Failure to comply may result in cleaning charges being levied to the unit assigned the vehicle.

12.  If a vehicle is damaged, and if the driver was negligent, the operating unit sponsoring the use of vehicle may be responsible for repair costs.

13.  All accidents, regardless of the amount of damage, shall be reported to University Police and driver must complete the required accident report within 24 hours of return.

14.  Personal belongings left in University vehicles will be turned over to University Police.  The University will not be responsible for loss of damage to personal property left in unattended vehicles.

15.  Remove key from unattended vehicle, and lock all vehicle doors.

16.  The University bears no liability for use of personal vehicles.

17.  Vehicles rented from a state contract or in the name of the University are considered state vehicles subject to this policy.

18.  Vehicle shall be returned on the date and time as indicated on vehicle request form due to back to back assignments.

19.  Noncompliance with this policy will result in the loss of University driving privileges.

20.  Members of the University community should remember that their behavior reflects upon the University.  Travelers in state vehicles are expected to exercise responsible, adult judgment regarding their conduct.

Vehicle Liability

New York State is protected for operation of vehicles owned, rented or used on its behalf, under our Self Insurance Program for auto liability.

Employees sued as a result of an accident in a State vehicle must request Public Officers Law Section 17 coverage from the Attorney General.  If the employee was acting in the course of employment and the act was not malicious or intentional, the Attorney General may grant defense and indemnification for any award made.