What action must an officer take when a civilian claims the Department is responsible for an accident?

The appropriate action for an officer when a civilian claims the Department is responsible for an accident is to notify the civilian that they can file a notice of claim with the comptroller’s office. This step is significant because it is part of the legal process that must be followed when there is a claim against a municipal entity. Filing a notice of claim is usually required before any lawsuit can be initiated, as it formally notifies the city of the claim and allows them to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. This process protects the rights of both the department and the civilian by ensuring that grievances are properly documented and handled within the legal framework established for such situations.

While suggesting that the civilian may file a lawsuit or contact their attorney might seem practical, these options do not guide them through the specific processes required for claims against a municipal entity, nor do they provide the necessary information regarding the preliminary steps involved.

Directing the civilian to the Department’s website could provide them with more information, but it lacks the personal touch and immediacy of guidance that comes with directly advising them of the specific action they need to take in this context. Overall, informing the civilian about the necessity to file a notice of claim with the comptroller's office is the most accurate and helpful response