Listed in Asset Management
When it comes to municipal liability, a missing stop sign or a damaged guardrail isn't just an inconvenience, it’s a lawsuit waiting to happen. That’s why your municipality’s liability insurance carrier is increasingly urging highway departments to adopt asset management platforms. These systems aren’t just digital filing cabinets - they’re powerful tools that help protect the public and your town from costly legal exposure.
One of the biggest concerns for insurers is roadway signage. Every faded speed limit sign, missing warning placard, or tilted stop sign represents a potential hazard. If a crash occurs and it's discovered that the sign was missing, unreadable, or known to be in poor condition—and there’s no documentation showing the town had a plan to inspect or replace it, you could be found negligent. And guess who’s paying out that claim? Your insurance carrier.
That’s why they love asset management systems. These platforms allow you to:
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Inventory every sign and asset in your jurisdiction, from stop signs to drainage structures.
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Track the condition of each asset with notes and photos, ensuring visibility issues or physical damage are noted.
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Set replacement schedules so aging signs are proactively addressed before they become a liability.
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Keep digital records of inspections and maintenance to show a history of due diligence in court, if needed.
When municipalities can prove that they regularly inspect, maintain, and plan for the replacement of critical infrastructure, insurance carriers can defend claims, or avoid them altogether. In fact, towns that implement asset tracking often see fewer claims and may even qualify for lower premiums over time.
In short, your insurance carrier isn’t being pushy. They’re being practical. An asset management platform doesn’t just make your department more efficient; it strengthens your legal shield and safeguards your budget. And in the world of municipal liability, that’s not just smart. It’s essential.