The Association of Average Adjusters (AAA) is an organisation that provides insurance to its members. It was founded in 1902 and is headquartered in Heathrow, Florida. AAA insurance adjusters have a lot of responsibilities, including investigating, negotiating, and coordinating on behalf of their clients to resolve a claim. However, reviews of AAA's insurance services are mixed, with some praising the company for its affordable rates and others criticising its poor customer service and delayed claim payments.
What You'll Learn
- AAA insurance adjusters handle several claims at once, all in different stages
- They investigate, negotiate, and coordinate to resolve a claim
- They review new claims, follow up on pending claims, and take statements
- They gather evidence, check coverage, and secure estimates of damaged property
- AAA adjusters also help with rental car arrangements and medical bill triage
AAA insurance adjusters handle several claims at once, all in different stages
The number of cases an adjuster handles simultaneously depends on factors such as caseload, experience, and financial exposure. Adjusters are often overworked, handling hundreds of open claims, numerous phone calls, and computerised records. This can make it challenging for them to recall specific details of each case. However, adjusters are skilled at managing multiple claims and prioritising tasks to effectively resolve them.
The claims adjuster may be an employee of the insurance company or an independent or third-party administrator (TPA) adjuster, who is outsourced and has limited authority on claims. Outsourced adjusters are typically used for smaller claims and can be identified by their letterhead or email address, which differs from the insurance company's.
Adjusters have a set of primary responsibilities, including confirming policy and coverage, investigating facts and damages, reserving funds, and processing payments. They are monitored by insurance companies for their settlement amounts, claim closure rates, and ability to conclude settlements without legal intervention. Understanding the adjuster's role and performance metrics can be advantageous during negotiations.
It is important to remain calm and professional when interacting with adjusters. Prompt communication, cooperation, thorough documentation, and courteous behaviour can positively influence the claims process. Additionally, seeking assistance from a public adjuster or an attorney experienced in insurance claims can be beneficial for claimants, especially in more complex or contentious situations.
Pursuing a Career in Insurance Adjusting: A Guide to Licensing and Opportunities in Pennsylvania
You may want to see also
They investigate, negotiate, and coordinate to resolve a claim
Negotiation is a critical skill in conflict resolution, allowing disputants to reach a consensus and avoid the expense of a lawsuit. It involves direct or indirect communication between parties with opposing interests to determine a joint course of action that resolves the dispute. Negotiation can take on various forms, including mediation, arbitration, and litigation, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages.
In the context of insurance claims, negotiation with adjusters can be challenging. Insurance adjusters are hired by insurance companies to investigate claims and determine their liability and the amount of compensation to be paid out. It is important to remember that adjusters are trained to reduce compensation and deny liability, so having strong evidence to support your claim is crucial. Being well-prepared, calculating a full settlement amount, knowing your bottom line, and seeking legal advice if needed are essential strategies when negotiating with insurance adjusters.
The negotiation process typically involves gathering and presenting relevant evidence, such as repair bills, property damage quotes, accident reports, eyewitness statements, and salary records. It is important to calculate a fair settlement amount that covers medical bills, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, and any other relevant losses.
One common tactic used by insurance companies is offering a low settlement amount as a quick way to resolve the claim. It is important to beware of this tactic and not accept the first offer. Getting the settlement offer in writing and carefully reviewing any authorization forms are also crucial steps in the process.
Overall, successful negotiation with insurance adjusters requires a thorough understanding of the claim, strong evidence, and a clear understanding of your rights and the negotiation process.
The Art of Damage Assessment: Unraveling the Insurance Adjuster's Process
You may want to see also
They review new claims, follow up on pending claims, and take statements
The role of an insurance adjuster is to investigate, negotiate, and coordinate on behalf of the insured person to resolve a claim. They handle several claims at once, all in different stages of the process.
A typical day for an insurance adjuster starts with checking their emails and voicemails. They review new claims that came in overnight and follow up on pending claims. They also take statements from the person reporting the claim and, if necessary, from all parties involved, including third-party witnesses. If injuries are involved, adjusters gather those details to help them evaluate the claim.
Adjusters also collect photos of damaged vehicles and of the accident scene, as well as other types of evidence, such as a police report or a video of the collision. They may also need to confirm if the drivers involved have valid auto insurance.
The next steps include securing estimates of the damaged vehicle, setting up a rental car, and triage medical bills. Finally, the adjuster will negotiate an injury settlement with the other driver and/or their attorney.
While AAA insurance is rated highly for its affordable rates, it has received more complaints than the average car insurance provider of its size. Customer complaints tend to focus on poor customer service and delayed claims payments.
The Secrets Behind Insurance Adjusters: Unveiling the Unspoken
You may want to see also
They gather evidence, check coverage, and secure estimates of damaged property
Evidence gathering, coverage checking, and damage estimation are all part of the insurance claims process. After an accident, it is crucial to gather evidence to support your insurance claim or lawsuit. This includes taking pictures or videos of the damage, collecting witness information, obtaining a copy of the police report, and documenting your damages and losses. It is also important to read and understand your insurance policy, including the coverage categories and any additional endorsements. In the case of property damage, it is recommended to take temporary measures to protect your property and prevent further damage. An insurance adjuster will be assigned to assess the damage and estimate the cost of repairs or replacements. It is important to provide as much information as possible to the adjuster and work with them to reach an agreed-upon scope of loss. The adjuster's estimate will form the basis for the insurance company's payment. If there is a disagreement over the estimate, there are options for appraisal or mediation to resolve the dispute.
Gathering Evidence:
- Take pictures or videos of the damage: Use your phone or camera to document the accident scene, including damage to vehicles, license plates, traffic signs, and the location of the accident.
- Collect witness information: Get the names and contact information of potential witnesses, including drivers, passengers, and nearby residents.
- Obtain a copy of the police report: This report includes valuable information such as statements from drivers, passengers, and witnesses, as well as the officer's observations and conclusions.
- Document your damages and losses: Keep records of medical bills, vehicle repair estimates, rental car receipts, lost income, and any other expenses related to the accident.
Checking Coverage:
- Understand your insurance policy: Read through your policy document, including the coverage categories and any additional endorsements. Pay attention to coverage categories such as dwelling, personal property, additional living expenses, and personal liability.
- Review any additional endorsements or extras: Some policies may include optional add-ons that provide extended coverage.
Securing Estimates of Damaged Property:
- Take temporary measures to protect your property: In the case of property damage, cover any exposed areas with plastic sheeting or plywood to prevent further damage.
- Work with an insurance adjuster: An adjuster will assess the damage and estimate the cost of repairs or replacements. Provide as much information as possible to the adjuster to help them make a thorough evaluation.
- Agree on a scope of loss: Work with the adjuster to create a detailed list of the quantities and qualities of materials, labour, and other items required to repair or rebuild. This will help in obtaining accurate contractor estimates.
- Resolve disagreements: If you disagree with the adjuster's estimate, consider options such as appraisal or mediation to resolve the dispute. You can also seek help from a public adjuster or an attorney who specialises in insurance claims.
Unraveling the Path to Becoming an Insurance Adjuster in Tennessee
You may want to see also
AAA adjusters also help with rental car arrangements and medical bill triage
AAA adjusters help with a lot more than just insurance claims. They also assist with rental car arrangements and medical bill triage, among other things.
If you've been in a car accident, you'll know that dealing with insurance companies and claims can be a complex and time-consuming process. That's where AAA claims adjusters come in. They work on your behalf to investigate, negotiate, and coordinate the resolution of your claim. This includes gathering statements, evidence, and coverage information, as well as assessing damage and repair costs.
One important service that AAA adjusters provide is helping with rental car arrangements. If your car is being repaired or replaced after an accident, you may need a rental car to get around in the meantime. AAA adjusters can make these arrangements for you, ensuring you have transportation when you need it. This is particularly helpful as rental car reimbursement insurance is often an optional extra on standard auto insurance policies.
Another key role of AAA adjusters is medical bill triage. If there are injuries involved in a claim, adjusters carefully review medical records and assess costs to evaluate the claim. They also negotiate with other drivers and their attorneys to reach a fair settlement. This can be a lengthy process, and if negotiations break down, adjusters may bring in mediators or attorneys to assist.
Overall, AAA adjusters provide a comprehensive service to their customers, helping to navigate the often complex world of insurance claims and ensuring their needs are met throughout the process.
Navigating the Path to Becoming an Insurance Adjuster in Oklahoma
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
They investigate, negotiate, and coordinate on your behalf to resolve a claim. They handle several claims at once, all in different stages of the process.
They review new and pending claims, take statements from the person reporting the claim, gather evidence and check coverage, secure estimates of the damaged vehicle, set up a rental car, and negotiate an injury settlement.
WalletHub editors gave AAA insurance a rating of 3.4/5, while the average user rating is 2.3/5.
Customer complaints tend to focus on poor customer service and delayed claims payments. Some customers have also reported issues with roadside assistance and tow services.
According to employee reviews, the job can be quite demanding and stressful, with some reporting a lack of work-life balance and long working hours (up to 60 hours per week). However, others have mentioned a good work atmosphere, supportive management, and fair compensation.