Claims Handling

Claims Handling

When people are injured, they should receive immediate medical attention and, if required, emergency services should be contacted. In addition, the following steps should always be taken when an incident/accident occurs on your premises:

1. Complete an incident/accident report. ( for a sample.) Documenting the incident/accident may help establish a defense against a claim presented at a later date. It may also help analyze the cause of the incident/accident and recommend improvements to prevent similar incidents in the future.

2. Contact your insurance representative to determine if the incident/accident should be reported to your insurer. If so, provide them with:

• details of the incident/accident;
• information about steps that had been taken to avoid the incident/accident.

3. Take several pictures of the area where the incident/accident occurred.

• Photograph any damages to the property.
• Photograph the area(s) where the person was injured.
• Photograph the injuries that the person sustained if possible.

4. Take down the names and contact information of any witnesses. Obtain and record detailed descriptions of the incident/accident from the victim and witnesses.

5. In the event that a person is injured, instruct employees and volunteers never to admit fault on behalf of the organization. They should say “I’m not permitted by my employer to discuss the circumstances of the incident. I will, however, be reporting the incident immediately, and an authorized person will contact you.” Never admit liability!!

6. Document all information related to incidents/accidents.

7. Investigate potential causes and implement preventative measures.