Automobile Liability Coverage When Driving on USI Business

USI requires all persons who drive on behalf of USI to become Authorized Drivers with Risk Management. Authorized Drivers must have the following information on file with Risk Management: A Potential Driver Acknowledgement form, completed the Lezage Training Module for Defensive Driving (and Golf/Utility Cart and 15 Passenger Van training if specified by supervisor), and a Motor Vehicle Report. Unauthorized drivers are not allowed to drive on behalf of the university.

University Vehicles 

USI carries Automobile Liability on USI owned, leased, loaned, and rental licensed vehicles, including licensed golf/utility carts/trailers.  This coverage responds to claims brought by third parties for bodily injury or property damage that arises out of the use of these vehicles. A USI employee, student, or volunteer may drive a personal vehicle on official USI Business. 

However, when driving personal vehicles, insurance coverage is as follows:

• Personal Vehicle Automobile Liability - the Authorized Driver’s personal automobile insurance is always PRIMARY. USI’s insurance is EXCESS of the Authorized Driver’s primary limits for damages to a third party.
• Personal Vehicle Accident Reporting - the Authorized Driver must report all accidents to their personal automobile company and notify Risk Management of the accident as soon as feasible.

For details, employees should refer to the Vehicle Safety Policy regarding Personal Vehicle Guidelines and students need to refer to the Student Domestic Travel Policy. 

Rental Vehicles

USI carries Automobile Liability on USI rental vehicles. This coverage responds to claims brought by third parties for bodily injury or property damage that arises out of the use of these vehicles. Please note the following:

• Decline all insurance offered by the rental car company because you are covered by USI’s insurance policy. You will not be reimbursed for the cost of any insurance coverage that you may choose to accept.
• After signing the rental agreement, write “University of Southern Indiana” below your signature.
• Look over the rental vehicle and notify the car rental company of all damages (scratches, stains, markings,) before leaving the rental lot.

Please refer to Travel Procurement for USI’s Vehicle Rental process here.

IMPORTANT: It is the responsibility of the Authorized Driver to print the following forms and keep them in the vehicle when driving on University Business. The Authorized Driver to report any accident, regardless of damage, that involves any USI vehicle or a personal vehicle used on USI business.

• Print Auto Insurance Certificate
• Print Vehicle Accident Report Form