Section 32-23-8.16 - Transportation1. The department maintains a preventative maintenance and inspection program to ensure the safe operation of vehicles and to promote the long-term life of the vehicle. (Reference: "Safety Policies and Procedures" file.) Vehicle bodies and interiors are maintained in a manner that promotes the positive image of the MDRS transportation system. They provide an attractive, comfortable, safe, and efficient means of transportation. Vehicles are serviced and cleaned on a routine basis. Methods used to minimize breakdowns and expensive repairs and to identify when maintenance is needed include: a. Weekly Vehicle Inspectionb. Vehicle Service Historyc. Routine Maintenance Schedule2. Vehicles and related auxiliary equipment meet all applicable legal requirements and are maintained in a safe and efficient condition.3. Seat belts are used in all vehicles transporting people.4. Each vehicle has adequate first aid supplies, fire suppression equipment, and DOT approved triangle reflectors. These items are secured in a manner which prevents them from posing safety hazards to passengers.5. The Center maintains and updates a list of all authorized drivers. Included on this list is the following information: driver's name, job title, license number, date of birth, and types of vehicles authorized to drive.6. MDRS verifies proper licensure of drivers upon employment as part of the background check by procuring a motor vehicle report (MVR) of the driver. At least annually, the Center updates information to verify the credentials of all authorized drivers.7. All drivers for the Center have photo identification or other type of visible identification to identify them as an authorized representative of the Center.8. The Center provides all drivers with annual, specialized training regarding the safe operation and use of the vehicle driven. This training includes, as applicable, the movement of people and/or materials as well as the safe transportation of persons with disabilities.9. At least annually, all vehicle operators are provided training in the handling of accidents and road emergencies. All vehicles have supplies and/or equipment to aid in the response to a road emergency. Written procedures for handling road emergencies and/or accidents are placed in accessible locations in the vehicle.10. In the event that evidence is provided on an authorized driver regarding moving violations or hazardous driving, the Center Director determines if the driver shall continue to operate Center vehicles or if disciplinary action is to be carried out. SPB policies are applied to State employees in these circumstances. In no event is a driver who demonstrates reckless or dangerous performance allowed o drive a Center vehicle.11. In the event that an accident occurs with a Center vehicle, the Center Director or his/her designee conducts a thorough investigation of the accident.32 Miss. Code. R. 23-8.16