Use of Vehicles/Transportation

4-H volunteers in good standing are also given liability protection when driving University vehicles for official travel. However, volunteers using their own vehicles for 4-H activities should have adequate liability insurance since their insurance is primary. The University would provide secondary liability protection, in excess of a volunteer’s insurance (based on the previously outlined criteria for University protections to apply). The University will not reimburse someone for any deductible or liability claim paid by insurance or for damage to a personally-owned vehicle, unless caused by the University’s negligence.

Policies

• Volunteers transporting others in their vehicles must carry automobile insurance.  Note: Recommended minimum liability coverage is $300,000.  The person causing an accident is primarily responsible, and the driver's/vehicle owner's liability is considered primary.
• A licensed driver of any age may drive himself or herself to a 4-H event/activity with parental/guardian consent.
• Volunteers transporting youth in University vehicles must be 21 years of age and approved through the University Motor Pool.
• Volunteers transporting youth in private vehicles must be 21 years of age.

Guidelines

The following questions are ones that would be part of the determination of liability in the event of an accident involving one or more vehicles.

• Was the activity consistent with the organization's mission?
• Was the activity a regular part of the organization's program?
• Did the organization permit such trips under its policies?
• Did anyone within the organization authorize the trip?
• Was driving, related, or incidental, to the individual's normal duties?
• Were the drivers properly licensed, following safety precautions, and adequately trained?
• Was the age of the licensed driver transporting youth at least 21 years and a certified volunteer with the Maine 4-H Youth Development program?
• What was the condition of the vehicle?
• Did the vehicle have adequate safety equipment and had it passed inspection?
• How was the behavior of the passengers?
• Did everyone use seatbelts and was there an older adult to monitor behavior?
   

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