Off-Road Vehicle Policy

OFF-ROAD VEHICLE GUIDELINES

 

DEFINITION OF OFF-ROAD VEHICLE

An off-road vehicle is a non-licensed vehicle used for transportation, maintenance and grounds purposes on campus. The following are considered off-road vehicles on campus.

  • Cushman
  • Kawasaki Mule
  • Club Car
  • John Deer/Gator

 

MINIMUM SAFETY ACCESSORIES

The following items are considered minimum safety accessories and must be included on all new off-road vehicle purchases. Where feasible, these safety accessories will be utilized on vehicles already purchased.

  • Horn
  • Back-up beeper
  • Head lights and tail lights
  • Flashing light - If vehicle does not have a roof, the light will be mounted on telescoping pole. If the vehicle does have a roof, the light will be mounted on the roof.
  • Minimum of one mirror
  • Slow moving vehicle sign
  • 4” vinyl identifying numbers and department name in contrasting color
  • Operators should verify all safety components are in working order prior to using the vehicle
  • If an off-road vehicle does not have headlights, tail lights or flashing lights, it cannot be driven at night.

 

ACQUISITION AND MAINTENANCE

The department owning the off-road vehicles are responsible for maintenance and repair.

 

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS/RESTRICTIONS

  • All operators must have a valid driver’s license.
  • An MVR check is required for all drivers.
  • All operators who are required to drive an off-road vehicle a part of their job duties must complete the University-sponsored defensive driving course.
  • The operators of the off-road vehicles must be familiar with the operating instructions.
  • Passengers are not permitted to ride in the cargo area of the vehicle,
  • Operators and passengers are subject to all laws pertaining to motor vehicles.
  • Off-road vehicles are not permitted on Wick, Rayen or Fifth Avenues except to cross.
  • Off-road vehicles are permitted on other campus roads, side streets adjacent to campus and in traffic controlled areas during special events provided caution is used.
  • Pedestrians have the right of way (on campus core and on sidewalks).
  • Limit driving on the campus core during class changes.
  • Approach automatic parking exits with caution. Gates are not designed to detect slow moving vehicles.

 

FUEL

All fueling must be done at the motor pool.

 

ACCIDENT PROCEDURES

Accident/Incident Report forms are available from the Department of Environmental Health and Safety website. YSU Police should be contacted in the event of an accident.