Every state driver has the opportunity to promote safety on the state's roads by adopting
and displaying safe driving habits at all times.
Safe driving contributes to personal safety as well as to the safety of fellow drivers
and pedestrians. Review basic driver safety tips.
Follow these rules and regulations while operating a Personally-Owned Vehicle (POV):
Drivers Must
- Comply with the state of Washington's liability insurance laws, chapters 46.29 and
46.30 RCW. If an accident occurs the driver's personal automobile insurance is primary
and will be exhausted prior to application of the state's self-insurance coverage.
Insurance deductibles are the responsibility of the driver and are not reimbursable
by the state.
- Operate the vehicle in a professional and safe manner and comply with all Washington
traffic laws and regulations.
- Complete a State of Washington Vehicle Accident Report (SF 137) if an accident occurs, and follow the procedures outlined by the Department of Enterprise
Services.
- Complete an LCC accident report if an accident occurs.
- Safely organize and store equipment/supplies so they are secure in the event of a
sudden stop.
- Select well-lit, safe areas for parking, if possible.
- Place valuable equipment out of view and lock the vehicle when unattended.
Drivers Must Not
- Use tobacco products.
- Drive under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, drugs or any other impairing substances
as advised by health professionals.
- Transport alcohol/intoxicating substances unless transporting such substances is within
the scope of official job duties.
- Transport firearms, weapons, or explosives (concealed or otherwise).
- Use radar or speed detecting devices.
- Transport non-college enrolled high school or younger children in full size vans or
other specialty vehicles not meeting state and federal school bus standards. Non-college
enrolled high school and younger children may be transported in mini-vans and sedans.
- Use electronic devices (as much as possible). Electronic devices include, but are
not limited to: cell phones, blackberries, and portable video/music players.
- Hold hand-held wireless communication devices to their ear; or read, write or send
text messages except to report illegal activity, summon emergency help, or prevent
injury to persons or property.
