Accident Reporting Procedures

I. DEFINITION

A. Accident

For the purpose of this policy an accident shall be defined as any incident where possible damage to property, injury to personnel or possible liability against the University may result. Accidents are not limited to automobile accidents but include collision with stationary objects, individuals falling on stairs or walkways, etc.

II. POLICY

A. For the protection of the University, its faculty, staff, students and other individuals on campus, all accidents are to be reported immediately to the director of Administrative Services/University Relations.

B. All claims for damages as a result of an accident, either for or against the University, will be handled by the Business Office. University personnel should not admit liability, sign statements concerning the liability of an accident or accept any settlement presented by insurance representatives for the other party.

C. Individuals involved in two or more accidents within a 12-month period, where the individual is at fault, may lose University vehicle driving privileges. Also, individuals at fault in a hit-and-run accident will lose University vehicle driving privileges.

D. The University's liability policy will normally be adequate for most liability situations. Departments requiring additional coverage should contact the director of Administrative Services/University Relations for information. Individuals who drive University vehicles on an extensive basis should consider the possibility of carrying extended non-owned automobile coverage for additional protection against accidents.

III. PROCEDURE FOR REPORTING VEHICLE ACCIDENTS

A. Do not remove either vehicle.

B. Call campus security immediately or, if off campus, call appropriate police agency. If accident occurs on campus or within a reasonable distance from campus, call University security regardless of the amount of damage.

C. Report all off-campus accidents involving University vehicles within 24 hours to the Motor Pool Office and director of Administrative Services/University Relations regardless of the amount of damage. The Business Office will assure the necessary reports are prepared.

IV. PROCEDURE FOR REPORTING NON-VEHICLE ACCIDENTS

A. Report all accidents or any incident in which the University could be liable to the director of Administrative Services/University Relations immediately.

B. Prepare a written report within 24 hours and forward to the Business Office.