Technical Update vol. 30 no. 25 - County Vehicle Use

County vehicles are essential tools for delivering services and supporting community programs. In some cases, counties may consider allowing vehicles to transport participants, volunteers, or individuals involved in county-supported activities, including programs coordinated with outside organizations.

While these arrangements may support valuable community services, counties should carefully evaluate the potential risks before allowing county-owned vehicles to be used. Establishing clear expectations for vehicle use, authorized drivers, passengers, and travel limitations can help reduce liability exposure and protect county resources.

UNDERSTANDING COVERAGE CONSIDERATIONS

If a county chooses to allow a county vehicle to be used for community programs or activities, members of the Colorado Counties Casualty and Property Pool (CAPP) have coverage for this practice. However, counties should understand the potential impact of an accident.

When a county vehicle is involved in an accident, and the county driver is determined to be at fault, the loss may be charged against the county’s loss experience. Increased losses can impact a county’s loss ratio and may affect future CAPP contributions.

COLORADO GOVERNMENTAL IMMUNITY ACT

The Colorado Governmental Immunity Act (CGIA) provides certain protections and limitations for public entities. Effective January 1, 2026, CGIA claim limitations are:

• $505,000 for injury to one person in a single occurrence
• $1,421,000 for injury to two or more persons in a single occurrence

However, counties should understand that these limitations may not fully address all financial impacts associated with a vehicle accident. For example, medical expenses, claim costs, and other impacts may create challenges when multiple individuals are involved.

Additionally, when a county vehicle is taken outside Colorado, CGIA protections and claim limitations may not apply. This could result in increased exposure for the county. Counties should carefully evaluate the use of out-of-state vehicles and establish guidelines to manage potential risks.

RECOMMENDED VEHICLE USE PRACTICES

To help reduce risk, counties should develop and consistently follow policies outlining appropriate county vehicle use.

Consider the following practices:

• Limit county vehicle operation to county employees or other authorized drivers.
• Verify drivers meet county requirements before operating vehicles.
• Establish guidelines for when county vehicles may be used for programs or activities.
• Review passenger policies and determine who is authorized to ride in county vehicles.
• Evaluate risks before approving out-of-state travel.
• Maintain current vehicle use policies and communicate expectations to employees.

Counties should also consider requiring appropriate waivers or agreements when transporting non-employees. Any waiver or transfer-of-risk document should be reviewed by the county attorney before implementation.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR COUNTIES

Allowing county vehicles to be used for community programs can provide important support and services, but counties should understand the associated responsibilities and potential risks. While CAPP provides coverage for approved county vehicle use, strong policies and consistent procedures are important tools for reducing claims and protecting county resources. Reviewing who is permitted to drive, where vehicles may travel, and how passengers are approved can help counties better manage risk. For questions regarding county vehicle use, coverage considerations, or risk management practices, please contact CTSI at 303.861.0507.