Policy Statement:

Lakeway Christian Schools (LCS) recognizes the importance of ensuring the safety of students, staff, and visitors when operating motor vehicles on school premises or during school-sponsored activities. This policy outlines the principles and guidelines governing the use of motor vehicles within the LCS community.

Objective:

Ensure the safe, lawful, and efficient operation of LCS-owned vehicles, aligning with legal mandates and prioritizing the safety of drivers, passengers, and the public.

General Vehicle Use:

• Safety Adherence: All drivers must strictly comply with local, state, and company traffic and safety regulations.
• Pre-use Inspection: Utilize the LCS inspection form for mandatory vehicle checks before each use, ensuring proper driving condition.
• Reporting Defects: Any vehicle defects must be promptly reported and rectified.
• Unauthorized Use: Personal use, unauthorized passengers, or use under the influence of alcohol/drugs is strictly prohibited.

Safety and Security Procedures:

• Seatbelts: Ensure the wearing of seatbelts and shoulder harnesses at all times.
• Parking: Utilize legal, well-lit spaces close to entrances and always lock unattended vehicles.
• Headlights: Keep headlights activated during all vehicular operations.
• Secure Transport: Safeguard all items within the vehicle to prevent obstruction or impairment of vision.

Commercial Driver License (CDL) Adherence:

• License Requirements: Align with TN DOT standards for vehicles requiring a CDL, considering weight, passenger capacity, and material transported.
• Regulation Adherence: Strictly follow all state and federal guidelines pertaining to CDL licensure and operation.

Vehicle Maintenance and Inspections:

• Scheduled Inspections: Conduct thorough vehicle inspections semi-annually and ensure vehicles are free from safety defects prior to use.
• Preventative Maintenance: Implement and adhere to a quarterly preventative maintenance schedule.
• Documentation: Retain maintenance, inspection, and repair records in compliance with stated duration and regulatory requirements.

Accidents and Incidents:

• Immediate Reporting: All vehicular accidents or incidents must be immediately reported to the direct supervisor.
• Investigation: Engage in a thorough investigation of every reported accident.

Cell Phone Use:

• Legal Compliance: Adhere to state laws regarding cellular phone usage while operating vehicles.

Passenger and Load Safety:

• Loading: Comply with laws for flagging or lighting extended loads and ensure safe placement of all items.
• Back-Checking: Conduct a visual check behind the vehicle before reversing, and always check for remaining passengers upon parking.

Rationale for the Policy:

This policy aims to mitigate risks, ensuring that all vehicular operations within LCS adhere to legal, safety, and ethical standards. By enforcing stringent guidelines, LCS demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding all stakeholders and maintaining compliant operational practices.

Implementation:

• Policy Awareness: Regularly educate all relevant personnel on this policy.
• Training: Ensure all drivers undergo comprehensive safety and operational training.
• Recordkeeping: Maintain meticulous records of vehicle use, inspections, and incidents.

Periodic Review:

The policy will undergo regular reviews to ensure continued alignment with legal, safety, and operational standards, adapting as necessary to changes in law or organizational practice.

Note: The meticulous adherence to this policy safeguards LCS’s reputation, ensures legal compliance, and prioritizes safety in all vehicular operations. Detailed protocols for CDL drivers, MVR impact, Inspection/Maintenance Records, and Accident Reports are available in attached documents.