MAO Manual

Awareness MAVO’s should take all necessary steps to ensure they get adequate sleep before operating a vehicle. When we are tired, we can make mistakes that jeopardize safety. People who are overly tired may react too slowly, or not at all, to a vehicle in front of or next to them. They may swerve on the road or even fall asleep. Make sure you read the warning labels on any prescription or over-the-counter drugs you may be taking. If you still have questions, talk to your doctor about the effects the medication may have on your driving skills. NEVER get behind the wheel if you have been drinking or doing drugs. Alcohol and some drugs delay response time, cause blurred vision, and impair your ability to judge distances. Your dangerous choices should never compromise the safety of your patient. Speed Travel at a safe speed; the MAVO should never exceed the posted speed limit. Speeding is a common cause of traffic accidents. Use safe following and braking distances and keep a “cushion of safety” around your vehicle. If the weather is posing a threat, add another second on to account for risky conditions. Stay Cool There are times when an MAVO may get caught in a traffic jam that leads to delays in transports and lateness to appointments. In these situations drivers tend to get frustrated and angry. Should this happen to you, remember not to let your frustration or anger turn you into an aggressive driver. Always keep in mind that the most important factor is safety.

Know Your Vehicle As stated previously, the MAVO should also be familiar with their vehicle. An inspection of the vehicle should be done according to your company’s guidelines prior to operating the vehicle. This will help ensure the vehicle is safe to operate. Some items that should be checked prior to operating the vehicle:  All tires are properly inflated  No mirrors are cracked or damaged  Fluid levels are adequate  The lift/ramp is in working order  All tools needed to transport a patient are on board : o Wheelchair o Seatbelts o Securement restraints o Trip reports o Gloves o State required equipment

Parking Parking your vehicle in an appropriate parking spot is the responsibility of the driver. Make sure that you never park in spots that are designated for handicapped parking. These spots are for people with disabilities who drive themselves and who have special vehicle permits. While your patient is in a wheelchair, your vehicle does not have the required permits nor do you as the driver to park in designated handicapped spaces. If you do park in these spots you can receive parking tickets with stiff fines and you may be taking up a spot needed by someone with the proper permits.