MTC SAFE

MTC SAFE Privacy Policy

This Privacy Policy describes the collection, use and security of the information obtained from users of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission Service Authority for Freeway and Expressways’ (MTC SAFE) Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) and Call Box programs. This policy is consistent with Federal and State laws governing an individual’s rights to privacy.

Personal Information Collected

MTC SAFE collects personal information on an as-needed basis to facilitate assisting motorists on Freeways and Expressways. Examples of personal information include a user’s name, address, telephone number, email address, license plate number or other information that personally identifies the user. MTC SAFE obtains this information when a motorist uses a call box. MTC SAFE also obtains license plate information, through its FSP Program tow truck operators, at the time road service is rendered. In addition, MTC SAFE keeps a recording of call box calls as well as records of motorist voice mail and written comments. These records and comments may also contain personal information. MTC SAFE keeps the recordings of call box calls for three years and the comments for one year. After these specified time periods, the recordings and comments are destroyed.

How Personal Information is Used

Personal information will only be used by MTC SAFE, the California Highway Patrol (CHP), and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) (CHP and Caltrans are collectively referred to herein as the “Partner Agencies”) for the purpose of managing SAFE operations. MTC SAFE may disclose personal information to third party service providers under contract to MTC SAFE for the purpose of operating the call box and FSP programs; otherwise, personal information will not be disclosed to third parties, except as required by law or ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction. Information about an MTC SAFE user’s use of the system, but which does not personally identify a user, may be disclosed to others to generate statistical reports for the purpose of managing the MTC SAFE operations.

Security

MTC SAFE will take all reasonable steps to safeguard personal information through physical, electronic and procedural means. MTC SAFE will treat user information confidentially and require third party service providers and Partner Agencies to treat it in the same manner.

Effective Date

The effective date of this privacy policy is February 10, 2005. If MTC SAFE makes changes to this privacy policy, MTC SAFE will post the revised policy on the MTC website, including the date of any amendments.