Approved: November 14, 2010
Revised: November 15, 2018
Reviewed: January 9, 2024
Next Scheduled Review: January 9, 2029
Rule Statement
System Policy 24.01, Risk Management, states that it is the objective of The Texas A&M University System to manage, control and, where appropriate, reduce or eliminate risk to the end that its employees, students and visitors are protected from hazards.
Reason for Rule
Research has shown that using personal communications device while operating a vehicle can be a serious safety hazard—whether the device is hand-held or hands-free. As one of the nation’s leading transportation research institutes, the Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI) seeks to set an example for safe driving practices by requiring vehicle operators to refrain from using personal communications devices and electronics while the vehicle is in motion on TTI business on public roadways.
For the purpose of this rule, personal communications devices and electronics are defined as commercial wireless devices, such as cellular phones, mobile email devices, pagers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), hand held radios, GPS navigation devices and other similar devices that could distract the driver if used while operating a vehicle while it is in motion.
Procedures and Responsibilities
1.1 Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation devices and Personal Communications Devices being utilized as a GPS navigation device must have the audio mode on and the operator must program destinations prior to disengaging from park and movement of the vehicle. If a route modification is necessary while the vehicle is in motion, the operator should exit the roadway (including medians and road shoulders) and find a safe location to park before modifying route.
1.2 Any employee operating a vehicle while on TTI business is prohibited from using personal communications devices or electronics while the vehicle is in motion.
1.3 This rule applies to both hands-free and non-hand-free devices.
1.4 This rule applies during all hours while on TTI business.
1.5 This rule does not apply to passengers in the vehicle.
1.6 If the driver needs to use personal communications devices or electronics, they shall exit the roadway (including medians and road shoulders) and find a safe location to park before doing so.
Enforcement
Violation of this rule will result in disciplinary action.
Exemptions and Other Considerations
driver may use a portable communications device to report a crime in progress, a medical emergency, a traffic hazard or if the driver believes their life or safety is in immediate danger.
Contact Facilities, Safety and Support Services, (979) 845-6595, to discuss any variance from this rule.
Related Statutes, Policies, or Requirements
- State of Texas Transportation Code Sec. 545.4251: Use of Portable Wireless Communication Device for Electronic Messaging
- System Policy 24.01, Risk Management
Contact Office
TTI Facilities, Safety and Support Services
(979) 317-2100