Automobile Accident Claims Procedure Involving a UVM-Owned or Leased Vehicle

This procedure delineates the process that should be followed by UVM affiliates in the event of an automobile accident involving UVM-owned or leased vehicles.

The University obtains insurance or self-insures against losses, damages or injuries arising out of university vehicle use. Departmental employees involved in auto accidents are encouraged to cooperate with Risk Management to promptly investigate, settle and mitigate the extent of the claims.

Procedures

Notify local police. If on campus, notify UVM Police Services at 656-3473. Risk management must have a UVM or local police report verifying that an accident occurred.

Call the Risk Management Department within THREE days at 656-3242

Notify your supervisor.

Further Information on Accidents Involving a UVM-Owned or Leased Vehicle

The driver of the UVM vehicle should submit a written statement to Risk management detailing the accident, parties involved, and estimates of cost to repair the UVM vehicle

Damage to UVM-owned and long-term lease vehicles are subject to a $1,000 deductible per occurrence. (Department to whom vehicle is assigned is responsible for deductible.)

If short-term rental vehicle, and Department did not buy collision damage waiver from the rental company, the $1,000 deductible applies. Otherwise, submit bill to rental company.

If vehicle is a leased or rented vehicle, notify the rental company immediately. Failure to do so will void the terms of your rental contract, including any insurance coverage provided under the contract. This may in turn jeopardize UVM's insurance coverage, making the Department responsible for the entire loss.

In all claims situations, do not admit fault, or liability. Do not sign a statement admitting responsibility for damages or injury. Obtain the facts of the situation and submit them in writing to the Risk management Department.

For ALL accidents involving injuries

Call Police Services at 656-3473 to report any accidents involving injury to UVM affiliates and non-affiliates. Notify the Risk Management Department within THREE days.

If an employee is injured during the course of the normal work routine, he or she must complete an Employer's First Report of Injury and return it to the Risk Management Department within 72 hours.

Definitions

UVM affiliates include UVM staff, faculty and students. It excludes non-employee spouses, alumni, etc.

Forms

The driver of the UVM vehicle should submit a written statement to Risk management detailing the accident, parties involved, and estimates of cost to repair the UVM vehicle. If the accident has caused injury to an employee during the course of normal working hours, that employee must complete an Incident Report Form and return it to the Risk Management Department within 72 hours.

Contact

Risk Management: 656-3242