The primary responsibility of a driver is to operate the motor vehicle safely. Distracted driving is any non-driving activity a person engages in while operating a motor vehicle. It is the policy of Valley City State University to prohibit the use of cell phones (including hands free) or any other mobile devices while operating a motor vehicle on state business (whether a personal vehicle or State vehicle). This restriction includes answering or making phone calls, engaging in phone conversations, reading or responding to e-mails and text messages, entering information into a GPS, and accessing the Internet.
While it is best practice to refrain from using electronic devices while driving, it is recognized that due to the nature of an employee’s work, it may be necessary for certain employees to engage in activities outlined above in the course of performing their duties. Accordingly, the restrictions in this policy do not apply to emergency calls, or brief calls that are identified and designated as necessary to fulfill critical agency functions. However, agency designated necessary calls should not take place while driving in urban or congested traffic, construction zones or during periods of inclement weather.
Violations of this policy may subject the employee to disciplinary action.
This policy does not change or alter the prohibitions on wireless communications devices pursuant to N.D.C.C. § 39-08-23 and the North Dakota State Fleet Services Policy Manual. (NDCC 39- 08-23, the use of a wireless communication device is prohibited while operating a motor vehicle as part of traffic. This bans the transmission of electronic messages including email, text message, instant message, and website access.)
Sponsor: Safety Office
Effective May 2014