Office of Risk Management

Craig Ambach, Director

Frequently Asked Questions

An employee uses a personally owned vehicle to conduct State business and it sustains damage during this use. Is the State liable for the damage? Is there insurance through Risk Management for this vehicle damage?

Risk Management has no insurance for this kind of vehicle damage unless the damage was accidentally and negligently caused by another State employee.

If I am involved in a motor vehicle accident, what should I do?

In case of an accident, contact law enforcement immediately. If the accident resulted in a fatality, serious bodily injury, or serious property damage immediately report the accident to Claim's Associates, Inc. in Sioux Falls at their 24 hour emergency number, 1-888-430-2249. Then report to your agency contact. For all other accidents, report to your agency contact as soon as possible. Make no statement to anyone that you were at fault or liable for the accident!

What kind of claims should be reported to the Office of Risk Management?

Virtually any type of accident or incident that results in injury or property damages. When in doubt, complete either an "Accident Incident Report" or "State Vehicle Accident Report" and submit it to the Office of Risk Management, or you may contact us by phone.

If I find a potential hazard at my workplace, what should I do?

A risk contact has been assigned to each agency. If you feel that a potential hazard exists, immediately notify your risk contact. A listing has been provided under "Risk Contacts".

Is there insurance reimbursement for personal property that is lost, stolen or damaged while on state business or at my workplace?

The State's insurance does not cover personal property lost or stolen while on a business trip or in the workplace. In the event of suspected theft, contact your supervisor immediately.

Does the South Dakota Office of Risk Management handle worker's compensation claims?

All worker's compensation claims should be directed and handled through the Bureau of Human Resources. Contact your BHR representative for more details.

As a state employee, what should I do if I am named in a lawsuit?

Immediately contact and forward all documents you were served with to your agency head, and the Office of Risk Management.