Small Claims Incident Report

Please be advised that the liability must be shown to be directly caused by the act or omission on the part of a state officer or employee as described in the claim. Damage caused by “an act of God” or other accidental occurrence which is not caused by the negligence or breach of duty by a state officer or employee is not the State University’s responsibility. The individual causing the damage must be an officer or employee of the State of New York, not an independent contractor, for the State University to be liable. 

The State is not automatically responsible for bills (medical, repairs or other) simply because the incident occurs on its premises or as a result of its operations. It is your responsibility to fulfill your financial obligations. Also, the Small Claims process does not cover damage related to potholes.

If your claim meets the above requirements, then:

1. Complete the Incident Report form below
   1. Attach additional supporting documentation (e.g., police reports, photographs, charts, maps, diagrams) 
   2. Write your full name, incident date, item description and location of incident on reverse side of attachments
   3. Attach a minimum of 2 estimates for vehicle damages
   4. Clearly explain the incident and why you believe the university is responsible