Mississippi State University possesses an extensive array of over 800 vehicles, encompassing cars, vans, trucks, transit buses, and utility vehicles. These facilitate the movement of individuals and goods both within and in the vicinity of the campus. Designated as the University's "fleet," these vehicles are managed by staff and students who adhere to rigorous safety protocols. Only authorized drivers are permitted to operate these university vehicles, solely for official university-related purposes.
Driver Safety Information
Did you know....?
- In 2020, 38,824 people lost their lives on American roads—the highest number since 2007.
- That 3,522 people were killed in 2021 due to distracted driving
- Cell phone users are 4 times more likely to be involved in motor vehicle crashes
- Risks are the same whether using hand-held or hands-free devices
- At 55 mph, a 4-second text takes your eyes off the road while you travel the full length of a football field!
- Drivers who are texting, take their eyes off the road 400% more than when they are not texting
- 10% of all drivers are using their cell phones while driving in the daytime. This means that 974,000 drivers are using a cell phone at any given time
- Handheld cell phone use by drivers has declined and is now illegal in 21 U.S. states.
- Today, 48 U.S. states have enacted texting bans for all drivers.
Common Causes of Accidents
Distracting Driving - talking on a cell phone, texting, eating, reading, etc. Estimates place distracted driving as a factor in 25-30% of all accidents.
Aggressive Driving - excessive speed, tailgating, passing on the right, etc.
Fatigued Driving - fatigue driving causes more than 100,000 accidents per year
Impaired Driving - alcohol, illegal drug, and medication use. Approximately 40% of all fatal car accidents involve alcohol use
What is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is any activity apart from driving itself, in which a person might engage. This engagement has the potential to divert their attention from the core focus of driving, subsequently amplifying the likelihood of being involved in an accident.
Generally, there are 3 types of distracted driving:
• Visual distraction involves averting your gaze from the road.
• Manual distraction entails removing your hands from the steering wheel.
• Cognitive distraction refers to shifting your focus away from the task at hand.
Examples of Distracted Driving
Cell Phone Use
Eating or Drinking
Talking to Passengers
Grooming
Using a GPS
Watching Videos
Changing Music
Although all forms of distracted driving are dangerous, texting stands out as the most concerning since it combines all three types of distractions simultaneously.
Cell Phones
Unsafe behavior! Safely operating a motor vehicle demands constant concentration, focus, and a keen awareness of the ever-changing environment. Engaging in cell phone conversations can divert your attention from the road and elevate the chances of accidents. On average, talking on a cell phone increases the likelihood of being in an accident by fourfold.
A growing number of states have enacted legislation that forbids the use of hand-held cell phones while driving. To ascertain the existence of any laws regarding cell phone usage while driving, it's advisable to consult your local regulations. These regulations vary across states. For instance, Mississippi implemented a ban on text messaging while driving in 2015. Those who violate this law in Mississippi face a $100 texting ticket. Bus drivers and learner drivers, who are not allowed to use a cell phone, face $500 fines for texting while driving.
Important guidelines:
Hands-free and voice-controlled usage
• Configure your phone for legal and safe use: Different cell phone manufacturers design various devices for hands-free operation. It's vital to understand how to set up speed dialing, employ speakerphone and voice activation, utilize redial functionality, and other safety features.
• Delegate call tasks to others: When passengers are present, allow them to manage answering and dialing calls.
• Utilize hands-free accessories: Hands-free cell phone accessories are widely accessible. Whether you opt for a mounted device in your vehicle or a speakerphone accessory, make use of these tools. Ensure their usage is both safe and compliant with the law.
• Refrain from multitasking with your phone while driving: Avoid texting or taking notes while the vehicle is in motion. These activities severely divert your attention and heighten the risk of accidents.
• Use your voicemail: Direct incoming calls to your voicemail and return them after reaching your destination.
• Pull over safely: If you need to make or answer a call, find a secure and legal spot to park your vehicle before engaging in phone conversations.
Seatbelts
It is the duty of MSU employees to guarantee the fastening of their seatbelts (when provided) before operating any vehicle. Both lap belts and shoulder harnesses need to be secured. The maximum passenger capacity of a vehicle is determined by the quantity of seatbelts present. Disabling supplemental restraint systems (such as airbags) is not advisable. It is advisable to minimize loose items within passenger compartments. Smoking inside vehicles is prohibited, as it poses health risks, potential harm to the vehicle, and distractions to the driver.
Automobile Insurance
The university insures its fleet of vehicles on a liability-only basis. This means that authorized MSU drivers will be covered for damages to third parties in the event of an accident. As MSU vehicles are self-insured, damages to fleet vehicles must be paid out of departmental budgets. Please click here to learn more about automobile insurance, access insurance card, and learn more about reporting an automobile accident.
Campus Bicycle (Scooter) Rules, Use and Safety
Mississippi State University is a large campus, making a bike a great choice to get around. Learn how to safely ride on campus, requirements for safety gear, and your obligations to pedestrians and other vehicles.
Video provided by MSU Police Department. Visit their page for more information.