Vehicle Accident Reporting Procedures

Effective: January 27, 2026Last Revised: May 14, 2026

  1. Purpose of these Procedures

    To provide instructions for what to do if you are involved in a vehicle accident that occurs in a state-owned or state-leased vehicle, or while conducting University-related activity in a privately owned vehicle.

  2. Immediate Steps to Take After an Accident:

    1. Ensure Safety First
      1. Stop the vehicle in a safe location.
      2. Turn on hazard lights, and - if safe - move vehicle out of traffic.
      3. Check for injuries and call 911 if there are any.
    2. Notify Law Enforcement and Supervisor
      1. Notify the applicable law enforcement agency.
      2. If on campus, notify the WSU Police Department.
      3. Provide factual information, cooperate, and do not determine or admit fault.
      4. Notify your immediate supervisor.
    3. Collect Key Information & Pictures
      1. Name, Phone Number, and Address of all drivers and passengers involved.
      2. Driver's License Number of all drivers involved.
      3. Insurance information for all vehicles involved.
      4. Name and Contact Information of any witnesses.
      5. Take photos of accident.

  3. Reporting the Accident to WSU:

    1. Follow WSU Policy 20.19 Reporting Requirements. For accidents that occur in a state-owned or state-leased vehicle, or while conducting University-related activity in a privately owned vehicle, the accident reporting requirements in WSU Policy 20.19 / Driving State Vehicles must be followed.
    2. Injuries to WSU Employee: Follow Workers' Compensation reporting procedures that can be found on the Workers Compensation for WSU Employees webpage.
    3. Rental Vehicles Reserved with a WSU-Issued Business Procurement Card: Follow the Rental Vehicle Accident Procedures that can be found on the Travel webpage.
    4. Damage to Non-WSU-Owned Vehicle: Notify Insurance Risk Manager and affected Supervisor / Department. The Insurance Manager will coordinate with insurance with regard to a claim.

  4. Contacts for Questions or Assistance:

    • WSU Police Department: (316) 978-3450
    • HR Total Rewards (Workers' Compensation): (316) 978-3065
    • Financial Operations (Travel): (316) 978-3070
    • Insurance Risk Manager: (316) 978-3148
    • Fleet Services Manager: (316) 978-3444