Liability policies

Liability coverage for employees

Officers and employees of the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) is part of the State of Nevada. Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) 41.0339 and NRS 41.035 provide that the State of Nevada will defend and indemnify current and former officers and employees of the state for negligent acts that occur while they are acting within the course and scope of their employment provided their acts are not wanton or malicious.

The State of Nevada and the NSHE are self-insured for their liability arising out of the negligent acts of their employees. The State's Tort Claims Fund is funded by the Legislature for payment of claims against NSHE or its employees. NRS 41.035 limits the amount of damages that can be awarded against an employee of the NSHE to $150,000 per cause of action.  This cap applies to claims brought under Nevada in a Nevada Court.

To request a certificate of our self-insurance, please email BCNRisk@unr.edu.

Liability coverage for volunteers

A person who performs volunteer service under the direct supervision and control of and for the benefit of the NSHE is considered an employee and is entitled to defense and indemnification under the NSHE's self-insured liability program provided their acts are not wanton or malicious. Students performing work required for a class are not generally considered volunteers.

Potential liability claims

If a student or non-employee has an incident while on the NSHE's property which might lead to a liability claim, the individual will need to contact our office and notify us of a potential liability. 

If the student or non-employee wishes to file a formal claim against the State of Nevada, a claim will need to be filed in addition to this report. To file a tort claim against the State of Nevada, a tort claim form must be completed, signed by the party claiming damages.

This form is to be sent to the Office of the Attorney General. Once a claim has been filed against the State, the claim will be investigated to determine if there is any liability against the State for the damages claimed and if so, those damages will be paid as appropriate.

Liability policy for medical students

The NSHE purchases medical malpractice and allied health practices malpractice insurance for students at the medical school and for students studying in the allied health areas. This policy is essential for the students to continue their educational process while protecting them against any loss that may occur while working with the public as an intern or similar educational activity. These coverages are purchased also due to health care facilities requiring students study or work on their premises carry professional liability insurance.