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Becoming a vanpool driver
All potential drivers and backup drivers must complete an application and be approved prior to driving. All drivers must be at least 21 years of age, with five years of driving experience, a safe driving history and a current unrestricted driver's license in their state of residence. The potential driver must authorize inspection of his or her Department of Motor Vehicle report. At the vehicle delivery, the driver will be asked to demonstrate his/her driving ability. Drivers' records are reviewed annually and driving privileges may be denied, suspended or revoked for any of the following:
- Alcohol or drug related convictions
- Failure to report any moving violation within 48 hours of occurrence
- Accumulation of more than three points on a driver's license
- Alcohol consumption or possession or use of illegal drugs in the van
- Confirmed dangerous driving complaints, two confirmed calls for bad driving or vanpool riders' consensus about bad driving
Driver perks and responsibilities
As the administrator of the vanpool group, the driver enjoys a number of benefits while also agreeing to a number of responsibilities, including collecting fares and maintaining the van. The driver of a full-size van enjoys a free commute and receives 40 personal miles free each month (up to 3,000 additional miles may be driven annually at minimal cost). Full liability insurance coverage is provided. Drivers may also receive a bonus of $25 to $100 annually for adding riders or keeping the van full. Support services are provided to ease administration of the vanpool, including a universal fuel credit card for the purchase of gas (billed directly to Easy Street® NY), free maintenance and repairs with "no hassle" pick up and return to the driver's workplace, and 24-hour roadside assistance. In return, the driver agrees to:
- Maintain a valid driver's license
- Report accidents within 24 hours and moving violations within 48 hours
- Make sure the van is available every day for the group's commute
- Encourage and train other riders to become back-up drivers
- Let Easy Street® NY know when new riders are needed
- Send monthly reports to Easy Street® NY, along with collected rider fares
- Keep the vehicle clean, inspect it regularly, and let Easy Street® NY know if it needs repair
- Keep the riders informed and coordinate alternative transportation when the van is out of commission
- Develop ground rules with riders and encourage communication
- Report vehicle or property damage to Easy Street® NY as soon as possible
Drivers are provided with safety training and coaching. If you are interested in becoming a vanpool driver, call 1-800-FIND-RIDE, contact us or fill out our online Commuter Contact Form.
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