Let’s discuss an important topic that can affect us at some point: personal injury claims. If you experience an accident that leaves you injured—whether it’s a car crash, an unexpected fall, a problem in a building’s facilities, or even a medical error—these situations can create stress and concern.
When we find ourselves in such a situation, the claims process often starts with the insurance company of the party responsible for the accident. The adjuster is responsible for assessing and covering the damages caused. That is where the paperwork, phone calls, and negotiations begin.
The insurance company’s primary function is to assess the extent of the damages and determine the level of responsibility. It’s a complex process but crucial to ensure the injured person receives compensation.
Understanding the individual circumstances of each case is crucial. This process may be challenging, but ensuring that those affected can rebuild their lives and recover from the difficulties is fundamental.
What is an insurance adjuster, and what do they do in injury cases?
The adjuster is a professional working for the insurance company, and their main task is to handle negotiations when someone files a claim after an accident.
First, they analyze all the details of the claim. From the smallest detail, nothing escapes their scrutiny and deductions.
Then, the adjuster assesses how much the insurance company should pay for the accident. This analysis involves checking the fine print of the insurance policy and considering all the case circumstances. What exactly happened? Who is at fault? How much does it cost to fix this whole problem?
The adjuster is the intermediary between the person needing support and the insurance company. They act as a translator between the technical language of insurance policies and the issue of the accident, in this case, slips and falls. Because, let’s remember, behind every claim is a person who has been through a tough time and is expecting a fair response.
Functions of the insurance adjuster
Investigation
Upon filing the claim, the adjuster will scrutinize every detail of the accident, be it a fall or slip on private property, a fall from a crane on a construction site, a mishap in a restaurant, hotel, business, etc., or any other dramatic turn of events.
Evaluation
With all the information, the adjuster acts as a judge and starts doing the math. They evaluate the damage, the injury, and the responsibility. Who caused it? How much is all the damage worth? And most importantly, is the claim valid? That is where they establish a “reserve.”
Negotiation
The negotiation phase begins if there are differences between what the affected person thinks they deserve and what the insurance company is willing to pay. The adjuster becomes the main negotiator, trying to close the deal in the most convenient way for the insurance company.
Final Decision
The adjuster reaches the final decision. If everyone agrees, the case is closed. But suppose things get tense and the parties don’t agree. In that case, the affected person’s lawyer takes everything to the courtroom.
Tips for dealing with insurance adjusters
They primarily focus on ensuring the insurance company pays only the essential amount. They are there to safeguard their company’s interests.
However, the adjuster is someone other than your best friend. They are not your lawyer or your number one advocate. Instead, they represent the insurance company to minimize the insurer’s economic losses.
Not all is lost; having a team of experienced accident lawyers at your disposal is the correct key to expedite the process and get paid what you are asking for due to the accident. These superheroes fight for your rights when you need them the most.
They know the game’s rules and how to fight for you to get the maximum possible compensation. Moreover, they do it quickly because they understand that time is crucial to recovering after an accident.
How does the insurance company calculate your compensation?
This adjuster will negotiate the payment for the injury or accident and help assign a value to each claim. They will try to agree to provide compensation, even if it’s not exactly what you need.
When the claims adjuster comes into play, they review all the case details. “Yes, these damages are worthy of compensation.” Remember that the adjuster is on the insurance company’s side, not yours. Their goal is to ensure the company pays what is fair, and what is reasonable is only sometimes what you consider appropriate.
Suppose your insurance policy has already covered some of your medical bills. In that case, the insurer might ask you to reimburse that money.
Refrain from limiting yourself to cold, complex numbers when calculating what you deserve. Consider all the damages you have suffered, from physical to emotional, and aim high. Ensure the compensation allows you to recover and move on with your life.
But if the insurance companies are not cooperating as they should, that’s the time to call a lawyer. They are the ones who will take your demands and handle your case to help you get your fair compensation.
Be prepared for any situation when dealing with an insurance adjuster
In the game of compensation, the adjuster is a crucial key. Their job is not just about adding and subtracting numbers but understanding the complete story and making a fair and equitable decision. Because we’re addressing more than just numbers, we’re discussing lives and situations that require appropriate resolution.
So, amid a personal injury claim, we are walking on a terrain where professionalism meets humanity. It’s a delicate balance between seeking justice and understanding individual experiences. And what matters is that those who have suffered an injury are supported.
At Pacific West Injury Law, we understand the crucial role of adjusters and are committed to ensuring that your story is heard and fairly compensated. If you’re dealing with a personal injury claim, allow us to support you in this challenging journey. Reach out to Pacific West Injury Law for expert legal guidance and a team that values your experience and fights for your rights.