15-Passenger Van and Fleet Vehicle Safety

1. 15-Passenger Van and Fleet Vehicle Safety Southwest Center Safety Presentation NOTE: Move forward in this presentation by clicking the left mouse button. If you would like to view a previously viewed slide, right click the mouse and select “previous”. You may want to follow these steps as you complete the test at the end to review the presentation.

2. Vocabulary • NHTSA – National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. • NSC – National Safety Council • CDL – Commercial Driver’s License

3. Background Southwest Center has a large fleet of vehicles that serves the needs of the five-county area. Of those vehicles, there are a number of 15-passenger vans that are used by a variety of Center programs. While driving any vehicle is a risk, there are very specific differences in driving a 15-passenger van. We want to take this opportunity to acquaint you with those differences.

4. National Highway Transportation Safety Administration Report • 15-passenger vans have a increased rollover risk under certain conditions • The risk of rollover increases dramatically as the number of occupants increases from fewer than five occupants to over ten passengers. • 15-passenger vans (with 10 or more occupants) had a rollover rate in single vehicle crashes that is nearly 3 times the rate of those that were lightly loaded.

5. National Highway Transportation Safety Administration Report (con’t) • As the load of a 15-passenger van increases, it causes the center of gravity to shift rearward and upward increasing the likelihood of rollover. Shift in the center of gravity will also increase the potential for loss of control in panic maneuvers. • It is important that the van be operated by experienced drivers. They should understand and be familiar with the handling characteristics of their vans, especially when fully loaded.

6. National Highway Transportation Safety Administration Report (con’t) • Institutions using 15-passenger vans should require seat belt use at all times. • Any load placed on the roof will be above the center of gravity of the vehicle and will increase the likelihood of rolling over.

7. Overview • 15-passenger Vans should be operated by experienced drivers. • In order to insure we have the most qualified drivers we now require drivers: • To be at least 21 years old with a minimum of 3 years driving history • To successfully complete this presentation and test • To ensure a good driving record

8. Accident Facts • 25% of all driving accidents are the result of excessive speed. • 70% of driving accidents occur within 25 miles from home. • 1 out of 4 employees who drive experience an accident while at work. • Most people know someone who has been involved in a serious car accident.

9. 15-Passenger Van Facts • A speed that may be acceptable in a passenger car could be dangerous in a van. • A 16 passenger vehicle requires a CDL (commercial driver’s license) • You should fill the front seats first. The center of gravity shifts to the rear and upward increasing the likelihood of rollover as capacity increases. • Soft shoulders and culverts pose a hazard in many rural and frontier areas. Be watchful! • The shift in the center of gravity will also increase the potential for loss of control in panic maneuvers. Do not forget this when in driving a 15-passenger van.

10. Driving Tips for all vehicles • Avoid sharp turns. • Avoid excessive speed and abrupt maneuvers. • Don’t drive tired. • Don’t drive in bad weather • Drive conservatively • Rest stops often (every 2 hrs. recommended) • Wear seat belts - this is mandatory!

11. For all vehicles (continued) • Drive during the day, if possible. • Require someone to be awake in the front seat with the driver on long trips • 2-way radio for all vehicles and cellular phone for leader on multi-vehicle trips. • Trip leader to drive lead vehicle and set pace. . .no other vehicle shall pass. • Obey all laws, signs and speed limits.

12. Defensive Driving Theories • Drive with courtesy and professionalism. You represent the Center when you are on the road. • Be calm when driving. • Concentrate when driving, people’s lives are in your hands! • Drive cautiously and aware of the limits of the particular vehicle you are in.

13. Dealing With Aggressive Drivers • Avoid eye contact. • Don’t cut in front of other drivers. • Allow fellow drivers to merge. • Don’t aggravate fellow drivers with hand gestures. • Don’t tailgate. • Use your horn sparingly.

14. Backing The Vehicle • Use a spotter if possible. It’s amazing how many Center vehicles are involved in “backing” accidents. • Back to the left (driver’s side) • Avoid backing up if you miss a ramp/exit. • Use your outside mirrors.

15. Highway Driving • Use caution when changing lanes. Always use your signals. • Be aware of other vehicles as you merge on to highways and the Interstate. • Pay particular attention to your Blind Spot, especially while driving a 15-passenger van or a vehicle that is not familiar to you. • Watch for slow moving vehicles. Do not barrel down on them.

16. Stop signs Stop lights Yield Signs Use of Signals Blind spots Pedestrians Bicyclist City Driving While driving in town, pay particular attention to the following:

17. Rural Driving In any rural areas, pay particular attention to the following: • Bicyclist on narrow roads • Pedestrians as well • Deer/elk or other animals • Soft shoulders • Culverts • Curves, hills and narrow roads

18. Emergency Situations • Encountering emergency vehicles • Headlights go out • Tire blow out • Engine failure • Brake Failure • WE SHOULD ADD SOME DETAIL TO THIS SECTION

19. Check-Out Procedures • Vehicle usage must be pre-approved by the Vehicle Coordinator for your Program. • Driver’s must have a valid state driver’s license. Utah state law requires people with out-of-state licenses to obtain a Utah license within 90 days. • Keys must be picked up by the driver. • Inspect the vehicle and report any problems. • Return the vehicle with the gas tank at least half full.

20. Vehicle Accident • Relax. • Never leave the scene of an accident. • Report the accident to the police. • Never admit fault. • Gather all the facts (date, time, witnesses, phone numbers, etc.) • Immediately report all accidents to your supervisor and the Center Liability Manager.

21. Conclusion You have completed the presentation. Now click the browser back button twice to go back to the “On-line Training” page and complete the test that accompanies this 15 Passenger Van Presentation. This must be completed, reviewed with your supervisor, and submitted to the Center Liability Manager.