Auto Insurance Adjuster: What's Next After Their Visit?

Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be a stressful and confusing process. One of the critical steps in this journey is the involvement of an auto insurance claims adjuster, whose role is to investigate the accident, assess the damage, and determine a fair settlement. Here's what you need to know about dealing with an auto insurance claims adjuster and what to expect after they come out:

The Adjuster's Visit:

When the insurance adjuster arrives, they will evaluate the extent of the damage, document it through detailed notes, photographs, and sometimes videos, and estimate the repair costs. They will also ask questions about how the damage occurred and may request additional documentation, such as receipts or previous photos of the vehicle. It's essential to be prepared for their visit and provide honest and accurate information.

Receiving the Adjuster's Report:

After the adjuster's visit, they will compile a report detailing their findings and providing an estimate of the repair costs. This report forms the basis of your insurance settlement offer. The insurance company will review the report to ensure it aligns with the policy terms and coverage limits before calculating the settlement amount.

Reviewing and Accepting/Disputing the Settlement Offer:

Once you receive the settlement offer, carefully review it by comparing independent repair estimates and checking your insurance policy to ensure all aspects of your claim are covered. If you find the offer satisfactory, you can accept it by signing a release form and receiving the payment. However, if you believe the offer is insufficient, you can dispute it by providing additional evidence, requesting a reassessment, or even seeking legal advice.

Beginning Repairs and Restoration:

Once the settlement is agreed upon, you can start the repair process by hiring reputable contractors, staying involved to ensure timely and correct repairs, and maintaining detailed records of repair expenses and communications.

Finalizing the Claim:

After the repairs are complete, there are a few final steps, including a possible final inspection by the insurance company, submission of all required documentation, and closing of the claim. It's important to carefully review and accept the settlement terms and verify that the payment matches the agreed-upon amount.

Dealing with the Adjuster:

When dealing with an auto insurance claims adjuster, it's crucial to be honest and provide specific details about the accident. You must also disclose all relevant information, including medical reports and vehicle damage. Remember, adjusters work for the insurance company, so they may try to save their employer money. If you have any concerns or disputes, you can speak to the adjuster's supervisor or contact the State Department of Insurance for assistance.

The Adjuster's Visit: They evaluate the damage, take photos, ask questions, and create an estimate

After filing an insurance claim, an adjuster will visit your property to assess the damage and determine the compensation amount. This visit can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. Here's what to expect:

Damage Evaluation and Documentation

The adjuster will carefully inspect the damage to your property, including both the interior and exterior of your home, as well as any other buildings on the property. They will take detailed notes, photographs, and sometimes videos to document the extent of the damage. This process can take around 1-2 hours, depending on the scope of the damage and the size of the property.

Questions and Clarifications

The adjuster may ask you questions about how the damage occurred and when you first noticed it. They may also inquire about any repairs or inspections you've had done by contractors. It's helpful to be present during this visit so you can point out any specific areas of concern and ensure nothing is missed.

Creating an Estimate

After evaluating the damage, the adjuster will create an estimate of the repair costs. They may take measurements and inspect various parts of your property to develop an accurate estimate. This estimate will form the basis of your insurance settlement offer.

Providing Recommendations

In some cases, the adjuster may recommend a group of "preferred" or "selected" contractors that you can use for the repairs. However, as the insured, you have the freedom to hire the contractor of your choice. It's important to remember that adjusters work for the insurance company and are not advocates for the policyholder.

Explaining the Process

If you are home during the visit, the adjuster will likely explain the claims process to you, including how payments will be sent and how your deductible will be handled. They may also provide an estimate of your Replacement Cost Value. Remember to ask any questions you have about the process and the next steps.

Adjuster's Report: The insurance company reviews the report and calculates the settlement amount

After the insurance adjuster has visited your property and assessed the damage, they will produce a report that includes their findings and an estimate of the repair costs. This report is critical as it forms the basis of your insurance settlement offer.

The insurance company will then review the adjuster's report to ensure it aligns with the policy terms and coverage limits. Based on the adjuster's report, the insurance company will calculate the settlement amount they are willing to offer. You will receive this offer along with an explanation of how the amount was determined.

The settlement amount offered by the insurance company is based on the adjuster's evaluation of the damage and their estimate of the repair costs. This amount is intended to compensate for the losses or damage to your property. It is important to review the settlement offer carefully and compare it with independent repair estimates to ensure that it is fair and covers all aspects of your claim.

The insurance company determines the settlement amount by taking into account various factors, including the extent of the damage, the cost of repairs or replacements, and any additional losses or expenses incurred. The adjuster will also consider the coverage limits and deductibles outlined in your insurance policy.

It is important to note that the settlement amount offered by the insurance company is negotiable. If you feel that the offer is insufficient or does not cover all your damages, you have the option to provide additional evidence, request a reassessment, or seek legal advice to ensure a fair settlement.

Reviewing the Settlement Offer: You can compare estimates, review coverage, and ask questions

After the insurance adjuster has assessed the damage, the insurance company will review the adjuster's report and calculate the settlement amount they are willing to offer. As a claimant, you will receive this offer along with an explanation of how the amount was determined.

Compare Estimates

Obtain independent repair estimates to compare with the adjuster's report. This can help you determine if the settlement offer is fair and reasonable. It is important to understand that insurance companies will always fight to pay less, and their first offer is usually lower than what your claim is worth. By comparing estimates, you can get a better understanding of the true value of your claim.

Review Coverage

Check your insurance policy to ensure that the settlement offer covers all relevant aspects of your claim. This includes not only the cost of repairs or replacements but also any additional living expenses if you had to temporarily relocate. Reviewing your coverage will help you verify that all your eligible expenses are included in the settlement offer.

Ask Questions

If there are any discrepancies or unclear items in the settlement offer, don't hesitate to ask your insurance company for clarification. It is your right to understand how the settlement amount was determined and ensure that all your eligible expenses are considered. Ask questions about any items that seem out of place or insufficient. Remember that insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, so having your own understanding of the claim process and the value of your case is crucial.

Make a Counteroffer

If you feel that the initial settlement offer is insufficient or does not cover all your damages, you have the right to make a counteroffer. Gather any additional evidence or estimates that support your claim for a higher settlement amount. You can then contact your insurance company and request a reassessment of your claim, presenting this new evidence. It is important to remain patient but persistent during this process, as negotiating with insurance companies can take time.

Seek Professional Help

If you are unsure about the settlement offer or need assistance in navigating the claims process, consider seeking professional help. Consult a personal injury lawyer or a public adjuster who can provide you with independent advice and guide you through the negotiation process. They can help you understand your rights, protect your interests, and ensure that you receive a fair and satisfactory settlement.

Accepting or Disputing the Offer: You can sign and receive payment, or provide evidence and request a reassessment

After the insurance adjuster comes out, there are several critical stages that follow. One of the most important is receiving the adjuster's report, which includes their findings and an estimate of the repair costs. This report forms the basis of your insurance settlement offer.

Once you receive the settlement offer, you have the option to accept or dispute it. If you find the offer satisfactory and it covers your repair or replacement costs adequately, you will need to sign a release form and receive your payment. On the other hand, if the offer seems insufficient or does not cover all your damages, you can provide additional evidence or estimates that support your claim for a higher settlement and request a reassessment.

Accepting the Offer

• Signing the Release Form: You will likely be required to sign a release form, agreeing to the settlement terms set by the insurance company.
• Receiving Payment: Once you sign the release form, the insurance company will issue your payment. This might come as a single check or multiple installments, depending on the amount.

Disputing the Offer

• Provide Evidence: If you believe the offer is insufficient, gather and present any additional evidence or estimates that support your claim for a higher settlement amount. This can include independent repair estimates, medical records, invoices for repairs, etc.
• Request Reassessment: Contact your insurance company and request a reassessment of your claim, presenting the new evidence you have gathered.
• Hire a Public Adjuster: If needed, consider hiring a public adjuster, who can provide an independent assessment and negotiate with your insurance company on your behalf.
• Seek Legal Advice: If disputes persist, consulting an attorney experienced in insurance claims can help protect your rights and ensure a fair settlement.

It is important to carefully review the settlement offer and compare it with independent estimates to ensure you are receiving a fair amount. Additionally, review your insurance policy to ensure the offer covers all relevant aspects of your claim, including any additional living expenses if you had to temporarily relocate.

Beginning Repairs: Choose contractors, monitor progress, and keep records

Once the insurance adjuster has assessed the damage, the next step is to choose a contractor to carry out the repairs. The insurance company may provide a list of contractors or suggest a specific contractor, but you are not obliged to choose from their recommendations. It is your responsibility as the homeowner to select a contractor, sign a contract with them, and manage the progress of the repairs.

When choosing a contractor, it is important to check that they are licensed and insured. Ask for a "Certificate of Insurance" to verify that they have liability and workers' compensation insurance. You should also check that they have the appropriate permits and are authorized to work in your state.

After selecting a contractor, it is essential to monitor the progress of the repairs closely. Ensure that the contractor uses the "scope of loss" provided by the insurance adjuster as the work plan for repairing the damage. Keep in mind that you will need to manage the contract and be responsible for any delays or issues caused by the contractor.

Throughout the repair process, maintain open communication with your contractor and the insurance adjuster. Provide them with any necessary information or documentation that may be required. Keep detailed records of all expenses, including invoices, receipts, and other relevant paperwork. These records will be important for finalizing the insurance claim and ensuring that you receive the appropriate compensation.

Remember that the insurance company is only responsible for providing the funds needed to make the repairs. They have no legal obligation to oversee the repairs or the work of the contractor. Therefore, it is your responsibility to choose a reputable contractor, manage the progress of the repairs, and maintain thorough records to support your insurance claim.

Frequently asked questions