Kai Insurance: Unraveling The Auto Claims Adjustment Process

KAI Advantage Auto, a Chicago-based company, has been in the business of providing auto insurance for over 60 years. The company specializes in handling a broad variety of drivers, some of whom may have difficulty finding insurance from other companies. While there is limited information on the specific process that KAI Advantage Auto follows when adjusting auto claims, it is important to remember that insurance companies are in the business of making money and may try to resolve claims with as little compensation as possible. Therefore, it is recommended to consult an experienced attorney before signing any waiver agreements or providing detailed information to an auto insurance adjuster.

The role of an auto insurance adjuster

An auto insurance adjuster, or auto claims adjuster, is responsible for assessing and evaluating insurance claims related to car accidents. They investigate and determine the extent of the damage caused to a vehicle, estimate repair costs, and negotiate settlements with claimants and repair shops.

Auto insurance adjusters then use the information gathered to estimate repair costs and determine a fair settlement amount. This involves considering the cost of repairs needed to return the vehicle to its pre-accident state. Adjusters may also need to handle negotiations with claimants if there is a dispute over the settlement amount. It is important to note that auto insurance adjusters work for the insurance company and aim to protect the company's interests and bottom line.

To become an auto insurance adjuster, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as business, finance, or insurance, followed by on-the-job training. Some states also require licensing and continuing education credits to maintain their license. Overall, the role of an auto insurance adjuster is crucial in resolving insurance claims related to car accidents, and they work to balance the interests of all involved parties.

Hiring a public adjuster

A public adjuster is a claim help professional you can hire to represent you in documenting and negotiating your insurance claim. They work only for policyholders, not insurers. After your home is damaged by a fire, windstorm or other event, an insurance adjuster will evaluate the damage. Your insurance company will send their own adjuster, but you can also hire a public adjuster to provide a second opinion and ensure your insurance company pays the full amount it is responsible for.

Public adjusters are experts in the details and language of insurance policies, as well as filing and adjusting claims. They often have prior experience in construction or a related field. They can use sophisticated software to perform an independent evaluation of a client's property loss, gather highly detailed claim information, log and submit initial and supplemental claims, and help clients negotiate with contractors and insurers.

You can find a public adjuster by searching online or using a directory like the one maintained by the National Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (NAPIA). It is important to check their credentials and ensure they are licensed in your state. You may also want to ask whether they will be handling your claim personally, how many other claims they have signed up in your area, and what their claim adjusting and construction estimating skills and experience are.

Public adjusters typically work on a contingency fee basis, taking a percentage of the total claim as their fee. This fee is usually negotiable and capped by local or state law. It is important to agree on the fee upfront and understand what it covers.

• Are you licensed to practice public adjusting in my state?
• Will you be handling my claim personally?
• How many other claims have you signed up in this area?
• Tell me about your claim adjusting and construction estimating skills, credentials, and experience.
• Can you provide references from local clients who were satisfied with your work?
• Let's talk about the fee contract.
• If I hire you, can I still communicate with the insurer/company adjuster?
• Will you be working with a specific attorney/law firm on my claim?

Warning signs of a questionable auto insurance claim adjuster

While KAI Advantage Auto's auto insurance claim adjustment process is not readily available, here are some warning signs of a questionable auto insurance claim adjuster:

• Charging large sums in advance: Many states set a limit on fees, so be cautious if an adjuster requests a large sum upfront.
• Working with specific contractors: Dishonest adjusters may have agreements with certain contractors, receiving commissions for directing business their way.
• Encouraging false or inflated claims: Avoid adjusters who ask you to lie or exaggerate the extent of the damage, as this constitutes fraud against the insurance company.
• Requesting excessive personal information: If a public adjuster for auto claims asks for an excessive amount of personal information, this could be a sign of questionable practices.
• Suggesting specific repair shops: Recommended shops may have a relationship with the insurance company and could provide biased estimates to save the company money.
• Rushing the process: It is in the adjuster's interest to settle claims quickly and for as little compensation as possible. They may try to pressure you into accepting a low offer or signing a waiver without fully understanding your rights.
• Playing on your emotions: Adjusters may try to take advantage of your shock and vulnerability after an accident. They may also try to get you to admit partial liability or provide guesses about what happened.
• Asking for recorded statements or medical file access: Providing recorded statements or granting access to your medical history may give adjusters ammunition to downplay your injuries or argue that they were pre-existing.
• Focusing on minimal vehicle damage: Some adjusters may try to dismiss the legitimacy of your injury claim by focusing solely on the appearance of minimal vehicle damage.

Remember, it is your right to consult with a lawyer before signing anything or providing detailed information to an insurance adjuster.

What to do after a car accident

Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and disorienting experience. Here are some detailed instructions on what to do after a car accident to help you navigate the situation effectively:

Stay Calm and Ensure Your Safety:

The first step is to take a deep breath and assess your surroundings. If possible, pull over to the side of the road or a safe location. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers. Check yourself for any injuries and ensure that you and your passengers are safe. If there are any injuries, call for medical assistance immediately.

Call for Emergency Services:

Dial 911 or the local emergency number to report the accident and request assistance. Inform them of your location, the number of people involved, and any injuries sustained. Follow any instructions provided by the emergency operator.

Exchange Information:

If it is safe to do so, exchange information with the other driver or drivers involved in the accident. Obtain their full name, contact information, insurance details, vehicle information (make, model, license plate number), and driver's license number. Note down the exact location of the accident and the time it occurred. If there are witnesses, get their contact information as well.

Document the Accident:

Use your phone to take photos of the accident scene, capturing vehicle damage, positioning, and any relevant details such as skid marks or traffic signs. If possible, sketch a diagram of the accident, showing the location of all vehicles involved and the direction they were travelling. Take note of any traffic or weather conditions that may have contributed to the accident.

Notify Your Insurance Company:

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with the information you have gathered, including photos, witness statements, and police reports. Be cooperative and honest when discussing the accident with your insurance company. They will guide you through the claims process and explain your coverage.

Seek Legal Advice:

Consider consulting an experienced attorney, especially if you have been injured or if the accident involves complex circumstances. An attorney can help protect your rights, deal with insurance companies, and ensure you receive fair compensation for any damages or injuries. Remember that insurance companies are in the business of making money, so having legal representation can be beneficial.

Remember, it is important to remain calm and composed throughout the process. By following these steps, you can effectively handle the aftermath of a car accident and ensure that you receive the necessary assistance and compensation.

Your rights in an auto insurance claim

When it comes to auto insurance claims, knowing your rights is crucial. Here are the key points to be aware of:

Information Rights

You have the right to receive information about your insurance policy, including benefits, coverage, time limits, and other provisions. You can also request information about your insurance company, such as their license status, financial condition, and complaint history. Additionally, you are entitled to a toll-free number to contact your insurance company with any questions or complaints.

Protection from Deceptive Practices

Insurance companies and agents are prohibited from making false, misleading, or deceptive statements to you regarding insurance. They cannot require you to purchase more coverage than you need or force you to buy unnecessary types of insurance as a condition of offering or continuing your policy.

Credit Information Rights

An insurance company cannot deny you coverage based solely on your credit information. They must consider other underwriting factors as well. If they do use credit information, they must disclose this to you within 10 days of receiving your completed application.

Right to Choose Repair Shops and Replacement Parts

You have the right to choose the repair shop and select the replacement parts for your vehicle. Insurance companies cannot specify the brand, type, or age of the parts used in the repairs.

Fair Settlement Offer

You have the right to reject any settlement amount offered by the insurance company if you believe it is unfair. The company must offer a fair settlement that includes taxes, license fees, and transfer fees in the event of a total loss.

Timely Claim Processing and Payment

Insurance companies are required to process and pay claims promptly. They must acknowledge receipt of your claim within 15 calendar days and request any additional information. Within 15 business days of receiving all requested information, they must approve or deny your claim in writing. If they fail to meet these deadlines, you may be entitled to collect interest and attorney's fees on top of your claim amount.

Explanation of Claim Denial

If your claim or part of your claim is denied, the insurance company must provide you with a written explanation stating the precise reasons and the information sources used in their decision.

Subrogation and Deductible Recovery

The insurance company has the right to recover from a third party the amount they paid to you in damages. If they pursue subrogation, they must include your deductible in the process. If they choose not to pursue subrogation, they must inform you so that you can pursue recovery of your deductible directly from the responsible party.

These are just some of the key rights you have in an auto insurance claim. It is important to familiarize yourself with the specific laws and regulations in your state, as well as the details of your insurance policy, to fully understand your rights and responsibilities.

Frequently asked questions