No matter where you live, what you drive or where you work, accidents are a part of life. Some of them you can see coming and know there is little you can do to stop them, while others come out of nowhere and tear apart the world you know and replace it with a whole new reality. In each scenario, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and ill-equipped to face the rebuilding process. Fortunately, one does not have to face these situations alone. These are situations for an insurance adjuster.
An insurance adjuster’s job is to work with you and the insurance company to come to an agreement that everyone can agree on. Depending on whether they represent the insurance company or you, the client, they will work for that entity to obtain the best possible result. As such, when you are the victim, it is best to have an independent adjuster who has your back and is willing to fight for your needs.
The job of an insurance adjuster
When you are faced with an accident or natural disaster that leaves you in need of an insurance adjuster, it is vital that you understand your role in the scenario, as well as your own responsibilities.
Your work
- Gather any documents you have on hand that relate to the situation.
- Have before and after photos, if possible.
- Be courteous and willing to listen and let the adjuster do the talking.
- Never make the first offer!
- Document everything. Write down facts, numbers, times and anyone you talk to; considering recording these items as much as possible.
Insurance Adjuster Job
- Inspect the damage. This is the first step regardless of the type of accident or disaster.
- In the event of an accident, they will review police reports and speak with witnesses.
- Inform the insurance company of the details of the accident or loss.
- Determine where the responsibilities lie
- Compile a damage report so financial losses can be assessed.
- Being the intermediary between the parties involved.
- Determine the appropriate amount of compensation.
Please note that in your first interaction with an adjuster, you will likely be required to give a recorded statement and, if the claim is medical in nature, sign a medical release form. Consequently, if you are not prepared to make a statement immediately after the event, it is acceptable to ask for a short period of time before speaking.
When you do your part correctly and provide the adjuster with the information they need, then you can be more real and get what you need to get out of the situation. Take your time, talk things out slowly, and eventually your adjuster can help you get over to the other side.
