The University of Arizona, through the Arizona Board of Regents is an agency of the State of Arizona. As such, the U of A is insured through a statutory program described in Arizona Revised Statutes §41-621 et seq. This insurance program is administered by the Arizona Department of Administration, Risk Management Section, often referred to as State Risk Management (SRM).
The state program utilizes a mix of self-insurance and excess commercial insurance coverage to address the state's property, liability, and workers' compensation exposures. RM&S works within state guidelines and procedures to coordinate these insurance programs on behalf of the University of Arizona.
This covers all University land and buildings, equipment, autos, and collections, from losses such as fire, theft, flood, vandalism, etc. RM&S provides assistance to departments with claim filing, monitoring, working with adjusters, and distributing claim proceeds to the proper account.
Claims for property loss must be filed within specific timelines, and must contain sufficient documentation for the loss to be paid (specific procedures and forms).
This program covers the acts and omissions of University employees acting in the course and scope of employment and/or authorization. Demands and lawsuits are defended by the Arizona Attorney General's Office. RM&S investigates accidents and incidents that may give rise to liability claims, and works with legal counsel to resolve claims quickly if possible.
Liability claims against the U of A must be filed as a claim against the State of Arizona in accordance with specific legal requirements and timelines. Settlement authority rests with various entities at the state level, depending on the dollar value of the settlement. No person at the U of A is authorized to pay damages, settle claims or make any representation of settlement for claims filed against the State of Arizona (specific information and instructions).
Forms for filing a Notice of Claim Against the State of Arizona are not available online. These may obtained directly from Risk Management and Safety, State Risk Management or the Arizona Attorney General's Office.
This type of insurance covers medical expenses and lost time for employees injured on the job. RM&S files claims with the state on behalf of employees, monitors status, and ensures appropriate distribution of benefits. RM&S also works with the injured employee's home department to ensure that coordination of payroll and sick/vacation leave is taken care of for employees that miss time from work as a result of an on-the-job injury.
At the U of A, employee injuries must be documented and reported to RM&S on a Supervisor's Report of Employee Injury/Illness. There are specific deadlines associated with this report. Late reporting may subject the injured employee's home department to a 20% deductible charged against the dollar value of the claim (complete procedures and forms).
General questions about the University of Arizona's insurance coverage may be directed to Steve Holland at 621-1790 or sholland@email.arizona.edu.
All contents copyright © 2008. Arizona Board of Regents.