Cell Phone Use While Driving Policy

1.0 Policy
1.1 Cell Phone Use While Driving

2.0 Scope
2.1 This policy applies to all RMU employees.

3.0 Procedure
3.1 RMU advocates safe and responsible driving habits. This includes not only adherence to traffic laws, speed limits, and use of seat belts, but also to limiting distractions while operating a motor vehicle through the use of cell phones and other hand-held electronic devices. For purposes of this policy, "hand-held electronic devices" includes but is not limited to, wireless phones, computers, on line email, pagers, palm pilots, pda's, and any other communication device. The use of cell phones and other hand-held electronic devices is generally discouraged while operating a motor vehicle, and should only be utilized as set forth herein.

In order to further foster a safe driving environment and to protect the welfare not only of our employees, but other persons whose safety could be jeopardized by distracted driving, the following policy has been adopted.
 

3.1.1. RMU employees are prohibited from using text messaging, email or any similar form of electronic communication while operating a motor vehicle on university business or on the campus of RMU or Island Sports Center property.

3.1.2. RMU employees are prohibited from using a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle on university business or on the campus of RMU or Island Sports Center property, unless such use is through a hands-free device.

3.1.3. The only exception to the above prohibitions is an emergency call placed to RMU’s Public Safety Department and/or 911 for situations such as a fire, traffic accident, road hazard or medical emergency. In such cases, the communication should be as short as reasonably necessary to communicate the nature of the emergency, location, etc.

3.2. RMU employees are generally encouraged to adhere to the following behaviors and safety precautions while operating a motor vehicle:
 

3.2.1. Attempt to make all calls or other communications before departing on a trip or after arriving at your destination.

3.2.2. Pull off the road to a safe location before making or returning cell phone calls or any form of electronic communication.

3.2.3. Avoid the use of cell phones in hazardous conditions due to weather, road conditions or otherwise.