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Insurance Claims

Insurance claims against municipalities are governed by Massachusetts General Laws and must meet specific standards for the City to be deemed liable. Please follow the procedures below to file a claim with the City of Newburyport.

If you incurred damages or injuries due to roadway defects, sidewalk defects, or potholes within the City's geographical limits, or if you are seeking reimbursement for damages resulting from a collision with a vehicle owned or leased by the City, you must complete a Report of Incident/Claim Form.

1) Click here to download a copy of the Report of Incident/Claim Form.

2) Click here to submit a claim through this website.

Your report must include: 

  • A detailed explanation of the damages or injuries suffered.
  • The exact time and location of the incident.
  • The date of the incident.

Items that may be included with your report: 

  • An itemized estimate of damages and/or receipts.
  • A copy of the Police Report (if applicable).
  • Photographs (color, if possible).
  • Copies of medical bills for personal injuries.

Filing Deadlines:

  • Sidewalk, roadway, or pothole claims: Must be filed within 30 days of the incident, per the Statute of Limitations under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 84, Section 18.
  • Claims involving City-owned or leased vehicles or personal injuries: Must be filed within two (2) years of the incident, per the Statute of Limitations under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 258, Section 4.

If your claim concerns a vehicle not owned by the City, you must file your claim directly with the responsible entity. The Finance Department will not process claims filed after the applicable Statute of Limitations has expired. The Finance Department is responsible only for accepting the claim form and has no further involvement once it is forwarded to the City's insurance provider.

Insurance & Claim Processing:

The City is insured by the Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association (MIIA). Once your claim is filed, a representative from MIIA will be assigned to your case and will contact you. Any questions regarding your claim should be directed to your assigned MIIA representative or the MIIA Claims Department at (800) 222-5963.

MIIA requires sufficient processing time to complete its investigation. Compensation is paid only if the City of Newburyport is deemed liable. If the City denies your claim, you may pursue your case in the appropriate state court within three (3) years from the date of the incident to preserve your rights.