After a car accident, understanding the role of an insurance adjuster is important for managing your claim effectively. An insurance adjuster is responsible for evaluating your claim, determining liability, and ultimately deciding on the amount you may receive as compensation. This article will guide you through the adjuster’s role in a car accident, the different types of adjusters you might encounter, and how they go about settling claims. If you’re dealing with an insurance adjuster and need help, contacting one of our attorneys can help you receive the proper guidance.
Table of Contents
- What Does an Insurance Adjuster Do After a Car Accident?
- How Do Insurance Adjusters Settle Car Accident Claims?
- What Happens If You Disagree with the Adjuster’s Evaluation?
- When Should You Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident?
- How To Communicate with Your Insurance Adjuster
- What To Expect from the Insurance Adjuster’s Final Report
- Don’t Navigate the Claims Process Alone–Get Professional Help
What Does an Insurance Adjuster Do After a Car Accident?
What is an insurance adjuster? An insurance adjuster plays several key roles after a car accident, from assessing the damage to determining liability. Each part of the process is vital in determining the outcome of your claim. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from an adjuster after a car accident.
Assessing the Damage
The adjuster’s first responsibility is to assess the damage to your vehicle and any injuries sustained. This process often includes visiting the accident scene, inspecting your car, and reviewing repair estimates. The adjuster may also review medical records if your injuries are part of the claim.
Investigating the Accident
To establish the facts of the accident, an adjuster will collect as much information as possible. This includes reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, and speaking to the drivers involved. The adjuster will use this information to understand the cause of the accident and assign fault.
Determining Liability
Once the investigation is complete, the adjuster determines liability, or who is at fault for the accident. This decision impacts how much compensation you will receive. It’s important to have an attorney advocate for you if liability is being disputed.
How Do Insurance Adjusters Settle Car Accident Claims?
The role of an insurance adjuster is not limited to assessing damage and liability. They are also responsible for negotiating and settling the claim. Here’s an overview of how the settlement process works and what to expect along the way.
Reviewing the Insurance Policy
The adjuster will first review your policy to determine the extent of coverage. This includes examining what types of damages are covered, policy limits, and any exclusions that may apply. Having an attorney review your policy can help ensure that you are fully aware of your coverage and rights.
Negotiating a Settlement
Once the damage assessment is complete and liability is determined, the adjuster will present a settlement offer. This amount is what the insurer believes is fair compensation for your claim. If the offer seems too low, you can negotiate. At this point, having legal representation can be beneficial in securing a better settlement.
Finalizing the Claim
After both parties agree on a settlement, the adjuster finalizes the claim by arranging payment. This process includes issuing checks for vehicle repairs, medical bills, and any other covered expenses. Once the payment is made, the claim is considered closed.
What Happens If You Disagree with the Adjuster’s Evaluation?
There are times when you may disagree with the adjuster’s evaluation of your claim, whether it’s about the settlement amount or the determination of liability. If this happens, you have options to dispute the decision and seek a more favorable outcome.
Requesting a Reassessment
If you believe the adjuster has undervalued your claim, you can request a reassessment. This involves submitting additional evidence, such as updated repair estimates or further medical reports. Having an attorney handle this can strengthen your position during the dispute process.
Hiring a Lawyer
If a reassessment does not resolve the issue, you may want to consider hiring a lawyer. A lawyer can represent you in negotiations or legal proceedings if necessary.
When Should You Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident?
There are certain situations when hiring a lawyer becomes necessary. If you are unsure about handling the claim yourself, or if liability is being disputed, seeking legal representation can help protect your rights and secure fair compensation.
When Fault Is Disputed
If the adjuster is disputing liability or attempting to assign you partial fault, hiring a lawyer is important. A lawyer can help gather evidence, build your case, and negotiate with the insurer to see that fault is assigned correctly.
When the Settlement Is Too Low
If the settlement offered by the insurance adjuster doesn’t cover your medical bills, lost wages, or other damages, a lawyer can negotiate on your behalf. They can work to increase the settlement amount and, if necessary, take legal action to get the compensation you may deserve.
When Your Claim Is Denied
If your insurance claim is outright denied, this is a clear sign you need legal representation. A lawyer can review the details of your case and the reasons for the denial, challenge the insurer’s decision, and take steps to pursue the compensation you are entitled to. A claim denial can often be reversed with legal pressure or through the appeals process.
How To Communicate with Your Insurance Adjuster
When dealing with an insurance adjuster after a car accident, it’s essential to proceed with caution. Speaking directly with the adjuster without legal representation can jeopardize your claim. It’s always best to direct the adjuster to your attorney, who can handle communications on your behalf. This helps ensure your rights are protected, and you avoid making statements that could be used against you. Proper communication through your attorney can streamline the claims process and help you avoid potential disputes later on.
Refer the Adjuster to Your Lawyer
It’s important not to speak directly with the insurance adjuster without legal advice. Any statements made, even those meant to clarify the facts, could be used to minimize your claim. Instead, provide the adjuster with your lawyer’s contact information and let your attorney handle all communications. This not only protects you but makes sure that the adjuster is negotiating fairly.
Keeping Documentation
If you do end up communicating with the adjuster before contacting an attorney, make sure to keep detailed records of all interactions. This includes saving emails, logging phone calls, and maintaining copies of any documents exchanged. Once you’ve hired an attorney, pass all documentation to them so they can manage your case effectively and address any issues that arise with the insurance company.
What To Expect from the Insurance Adjuster’s Final Report
At the end of the claims process, the insurance adjuster will provide a final report summarizing the accident, the assessment of damages, and the determination of liability. Understanding this report is key to knowing the outcome of your claim and whether the settlement is fair.
Overview of the Accident
The final report will provide a comprehensive summary of how the accident occurred based on the evidence collected by the adjuster. This includes police reports, witness statements, and any photos or videos from the scene.
Assessment of Damages
The report will also include an itemized list of the damages sustained and the costs associated with repairing or replacing your vehicle. It will outline the adjuster’s final settlement offer, which includes coverage for medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other losses.
Don’t Navigate the Claims Process Alone – Get Professional Help
Dealing with insurance adjusters can be complex and overwhelming, especially if liability is disputed or the settlement offer seems unfair. If you are struggling to get fair compensation, it’s time to consult with one of The McMahan Law Firm’s experienced attorneys in Chattanooga, Dalton, GA, and the surrounding areas. We can help you communicate with the adjuster, negotiate a higher settlement, and protect your rights throughout the process.
Contact us today to discuss your case and get guidance in dealing with your insurance claim.
