Insurance Adjusters And Sunday Calls: An Industry Norm?

Whether insurance adjusters work on Sundays or not is a question that has been asked by many. The answer is that it depends on the company and the type of insurance adjuster. Some companies offer 24/7 services, while others stick to the traditional 9-5 work week.

Insurance adjusters play a crucial role in the insurance sector, evaluating and settling claims. They are the ones who decide how much money a claimant will receive. Due to the importance of their work, some companies have insurance adjusters working around the clock, including on weekends. However, it is important to note that insurance carrier adjusters usually do not work on weekends.

Public adjusters, on the other hand, may work on weekends depending on their workload. For example, Experienced Public Adjuster, a company that provides public adjuster services, works 24 hours a day, 7 days a week when warranted.

The varying work schedules of insurance adjusters can be attributed to the different shift options offered by companies. Some companies offer shifts almost 24 hours a day, with options such as 5 8-hour shifts, 4 10-hour shifts, or even the freedom to work any 40 hours during the week as long as certain core hours are covered.

So, if you're wondering whether you'll be able to reach an insurance adjuster on a Sunday, it depends on the company and the specific adjuster's work schedule. While some insurance adjusters may be available, it is more likely that you will need to wait until the standard work week to get in touch.

Insurance adjusters usually don't work on Sundays, but some public adjusters do

Insurance adjusters are professionals who evaluate property loss and determine the financial compensation a claimant should receive. There are three main types of insurance adjusters: company adjusters, independent adjusters, and public adjusters.

Company adjusters are employed by insurance companies and sent to evaluate claims filed by policyholders. Independent adjusters are hired by insurance companies on a contract basis, usually when there is a surge in demand or when specific expertise is required.

Public adjusters, on the other hand, are hired by individuals or businesses to assist in assessing damages, filing claims, and negotiating with insurers for a higher payout. They are licensed professionals who work exclusively for policyholders and are often more thorough in their damage analysis due to their loyalty to the claimant.

While insurance adjusters typically work during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, it is not uncommon for them to work overtime or have flexible schedules, depending on the company and the complexity of the claims. Some adjusters may even work on weekends to handle urgent or complex cases, especially during busy seasons or following catastrophes.

Public adjusters, in particular, may be more likely to work on weekends if it suits their clients' needs, as they are hired by and work on behalf of the policyholder. This flexibility allows them to provide advocacy and support to claimants throughout the claims process, ensuring that their interests are protected.

Therefore, while insurance adjusters generally do not work on Sundays, it is not uncommon for some public adjusters to do so, depending on the specific circumstances and the urgency of the claims.

Adjusters work for insurance companies, not claimants, and aim to minimise payouts

Adjusters work for insurance companies, not claimants, and their primary objective is to minimise payouts. While adjusters may appear friendly and professional, it is important to remember that they are on the side of the insurance company. They are employed to settle claims as quickly and cheaply as possible.

Adjusters are judged on how little of the insurance company's money they spend and how quickly they settle claims. They will investigate the accident, examine medical records, and determine a dollar value for the claimant's damages. They will then handle the settlement negotiation process, aiming to get the claimant to accept the lowest settlement offer possible.

Adjusters go through intensive negotiation training and are incentivised to minimise payouts. They may employ a range of misleading tactics to trick claimants into accepting lower settlements than they deserve. For example, they may delay the process to frustrate claimants, or try to get them to admit fault or provide recorded statements that can be used against them.

It is important for claimants to remember that adjusters do not work for them and to seek legal advice if they feel they are being treated unfairly.

They investigate claims, determine fault, and compute fair payouts

Insurance adjusters play a crucial role in the claims process, investigating the facts, determining fault, and calculating fair compensation. They handle the claim from the moment it is filed until its resolution, conducting a thorough examination to avoid insurance fraud and excessive payouts.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

When a claim is filed, the adjuster takes immediate action, contacting the claimant to understand the incident, damages, and available evidence. They may also visit the accident scene to evaluate property damage and gather first-hand insights. Adjusters review police reports, witness statements, and accounts from all involved parties, seeking to establish fault and liability. They also consider road conditions, weather, traffic laws, and other relevant factors.

Determining Fault

A critical aspect of an adjuster's role is determining fault, which varies by state and accident type. In "at-fault" states, the at-fault driver's insurance covers the injuries and property damage of the other driver and their passengers. In "no-fault" states, each driver's personal injury protection (PIP) insurance covers their medical bills, regardless of fault. Determining fault can be complex, and adjusters carefully analyse all available information.

Calculating Fair Payouts

Adjusters aim to decide on a fair settlement amount. They assess the validity of the claim, reviewing medical records and evaluating the severity and duration of injuries. They also consider vehicle damage, income loss, and other expenses incurred. Adjusters may negotiate with claimants or their legal representatives to reach a mutually acceptable settlement amount.

Negotiation and Resolution

Insurance adjusters are skilled negotiators, working with claimants and their lawyers to resolve claims. They may offer settlements, seeking to balance the claimant's needs with the insurer's financial interests. If negotiations fail, the case may proceed to mediation, arbitration, or court, where a jury ultimately decides fault and the corresponding financial liability.

Adjusters may inspect damage, review police reports, and talk to witnesses

An insurance adjuster, also known as a claims adjuster, is responsible for investigating insurance claims to determine the extent of an insurance company's liability and whether the insurer should pay for damage or injuries. They work for the insurance company paying the claim and their role involves reviewing what happened and estimating the claims payment.

Adjusters may inspect damage to homes, cars, or other property, and they often look at police reports and talk to witnesses to help them understand the details of the incident. They may also ask for more information, such as photos taken at the scene or medical records if relevant. The adjuster's goal is to gather as much information as possible to make an informed decision about the claim.

In the case of a car accident, for example, an adjuster will review the details of the accident, collect statements from those involved (drivers and passengers), and assess the damage to the vehicles. They may also review police reports, video footage, or other relevant information. If the damage is covered by insurance, the adjuster will discuss repair options with the claimant.

Adjusters play a crucial role in the insurance claims process, working to protect the interests of either the insurance company or the claimant, depending on whom they represent. They help ensure fair settlements and minimize losses for their clients.

It's recommended to hire a lawyer to handle adjuster interactions and negotiations

When you file an insurance claim, you will most often deal with an insurance adjuster, whose job is to review what happened, estimate the claims payment, and ultimately protect the interests of the insurance company. While you can handle a claim on your own, it is recommended that you hire a lawyer to handle adjuster interactions and negotiations.

An insurance adjuster's primary objective is to minimize the payout on a claim. They are not legally obligated to pay the full value of your claim and will use various tactics to get you to settle for a lower amount. For instance, they may try to get you to accept a quick settlement offer before you understand what your claim is worth or pressure you into accepting an early and low settlement offer. They may also try to get you to admit fault or give a recorded statement that they can use against you.

A lawyer, on the other hand, will advocate for you and ensure you receive a fair settlement. They are experienced in dealing with adjusters and can handle all claims adjuster interactions and negotiations, guiding you through the claims process to maximize your payout. They can also help you understand the legal jargon in your insurance policy and protect you from making mistakes that could hurt your claim.

In addition, a lawyer can provide emotional support during a stressful time, especially if you have suffered a significant loss. They can also help you manage the time-consuming process of filing a claim, allowing you to focus on other priorities.

While hiring a lawyer may be an additional expense, it can be well worth it to have an expert on your side who can navigate the complex world of insurance claims and ensure your interests are protected.

Frequently asked questions