Government risk management offices are responsible for identifying, evaluating, and controlling financial risks faced by public agencies at the city, county, and state level. These offices manage liability claims against government entities, administer workers' compensation for public employees, and develop workplace safety programs that reduce exposure to costly losses.

There are 52 states with Risk Management locations across the United States. Local governments face significant liability exposure from their public infrastructure, vehicles, employees, and operations, making dedicated risk management offices a critical component of responsible public administration.

Risk Management in the United States

Browsing by state helps members of the public understand how to file claims against government entities for property damage or personal injury, locate the appropriate risk management office for their jurisdiction, and find resources related to government liability and claims procedures.

Common Services

  • Processing third-party claims for personal injury or property damage caused by government operations
  • Administering workers' compensation programs for municipal and county employees
  • Managing government property, general liability, and fleet insurance coverage
  • Conducting workplace safety assessments and employee safety training programs

If you believe you suffered injury or property damage due to government negligence, contact the risk management office promptly to file a claim. Bring documentation of the incident, photographs, medical records, and receipts for any damages incurred. Government tort claims are subject to strict notice filing deadlines that vary by state and jurisdiction.

For official information, visit Public Risk Management Association.

About Risk Management

Government risk management departments are typically part of the finance or administrative services division and are overseen by a risk manager or director of risk management. They may participate in risk-sharing pools with other public entities, allowing smaller governments to spread insurance costs and access greater coverage capacity than they could obtain individually.

Common Services

  • Negotiating and managing insurance coverage for government property, vehicles, and operations
  • Coordinating contract risk review and insurance requirements for government vendors
  • Managing subrogation and recovery claims against third parties who cause damage to public property
  • Providing risk management training and loss prevention resources to department heads

Claimants who file a tort claim against a government entity should be aware that most states require formal notice of claim to be filed within 30 to 180 days of the incident. Consulting an attorney before filing can help ensure your claim is properly documented and submitted within the required timeframe.

For official information, visit Public Risk Management Association.