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Insurance Adjusters: How They Handle Injury Claims

  • eastonadj
  • Jul 18, 2023
  • 3 min read

Updated: Mar 11, 2024

Insurance adjusters play a crucial role in the insurance claim process, particularly when it comes to injury claims. They are the professionals responsible for evaluating an injury claim and determining the amount of compensation the insurance company will pay out for the damages.


Who Are Insurance Adjusters?

Insurance adjusters are professionals who work for insurance companies to evaluate claims and determine the amount of compensation the insurance company will pay out. They are responsible for assessing the damages, determining liability, and negotiating settlements with claimants.


There are two types of insurance adjusters: staff adjusters and independent adjusters. Staff adjusters are employees of the insurance company, whereas independent adjusters are contractors who work on a case-by-case basis.


How Do Insurance Adjusters Handle Injury Claims?

When an injury claim is filed, the insurance company assigns an adjuster to the case. The adjuster’s job is to investigate the claim, gather information, and evaluate the damages.


Here’s how they handle an injury claim:


1. Investigate the Claim

The first step in handling an injury claim is to investigate the claim. The adjuster will gather information about the incident, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements. They will also visit the scene of the accident to gather evidence and take photographs.


2. Determine Liability

Once the adjuster has gathered all of the information, they will determine liability. Liability refers to who is at fault for the accident. If the claimant is found to be at fault, the insurance company may deny the claim. If the other party is at fault, the adjuster will move on to the next step.


3. Evaluate Damages

The adjuster will then evaluate the damages. This includes medical bills, lost wages, and any other expenses related to the injury, where the damages should cover. They will also consider the severity of the injury and the impact it has had on the claimant’s life.


4. Negotiate Settlement

The final step in handling an injury claim is to negotiate a settlement with the claimant. The adjuster will use all of the information gathered to determine the amount of compensation the insurance company should pay out. They will then present this offer to the claimant and negotiate until both parties agree on a settlement amount.


Tips for Dealing with Insurance Adjusters

Dealing with insurance adjusters can be a daunting task, particularly when you’ve been injured. Here are a few tips to help you through the process:


1. Be Honest

One of the most important things you can do when dealing with an insurance adjuster is, to be honest. Lying or exaggerating the extent of your injuries can damage your case and lead to a lower settlement.


2. Keep Records

Keep detailed records of all of your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to the injury. This will help you to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company.


3. Don’t Accept the First Offer

Insurance companies often offer low settlement amounts initially. Don’t be afraid to negotiate and ask for a higher amount.


4. Consider Hiring an Attorney

If you’re unsure about the claims process or feel that you’re not being treated fairly, consider hiring an attorney. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.


Conclusion

All in all, insurance adjusters play an important role in the insurance claim process, particularly when it comes to injury claims. They make the whole process much simpler and more effective, and even more successful than if the claimant made a claim by themselves. That being said, if you’ve been injured, work with an honest adjuster who can help you get what you deserve!


Easton Adjustment is an independent licensed insurance adjuster that focuses on motor truck cargo and heavy equipment insurance claims. If you are looking for fully-insured adjusters in Idaho, work with us today.

 
 
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