What is an Insurance Adjuster?  

Generally speaking, an insurance adjuster investigates, evaluates and attempts to settle certain insurance claims that may be brought by an insured, or third parties to whom the insured may be liable. Insurance adjusters  deal with claimants, investigate the details of the alleged loss—sometimes a car accident—check the extent of coverage, and determine whether to deny the claim or propose a settlement to cover the loss or damage.  

Insurance adjusters are sometimes known by different titles including claims handler, claims specialist, claims analyst, or loss adjuster. They can be directly employed by insurance companies, self-insured organizations and third-party administrators. Some field adjusters are independent contractors who work on a per-claim basis for multiple insurance companies.  

According to the New York Department of Financial Services, an “independent adjuster” is any person, firm, association, or corporation who acts on behalf of an insurer when investigating and adjusting claims arising under insurance contracts issued by the insurer.  Meanwhile, a “public adjuster” includes any person, firm, association or corporation who acts on behalf of an insured in negotiating the settlement of a claim or claims for loss or damage to the property of the insured.  

According to the Department of Financial Services, the New York Insurance Law requires an individual seeking an insurance license to, among other things, complete a pre-approved course.  

The Role of an Insurance Adjuster 

Insurance adjusters assess many types of claims, including those stemming from car accidents.  

Generally speaking, it is their responsibility to assess car damage, injuries, document the accident scene, interview witnesses to the accident, gather police reports and hospital records, and correspond with medical providers about medical expenses. 

In New York, insurance adjusters assigned to evaluate bodily injury liability claims after a car accident will likely consider whether the injuries qualify as a “serious injury” as that term is defined in the New York Insurance Law. This will likely require consideration of whether the claimant received treatment soon after the collision, and whether there is objective evidence of injury and limitation.  

Talking with an experienced motor-vehicle accident attorney can help you figure out the best steps to take when seeking to maximize recovery for pain and suffering after a car accident. An experienced attorney can help advise whether a proposed settlement offer is low. It is not a good idea to accept a low settlement offer because an insurance company will normally require the injured person to sign a “release,” which can have the effect of barring all future claims for personal injury. For that reason, a personal injury settlement must account for all past and future pain and suffering.  

Hurt in a Car? Call William Mattar

Do you need help dealing with a bodily injury liability insurance adjuster after a car accident? The experienced motor vehicle accident attorneys at William Mattar, P.C. can review your case and help ensure you receive maximum compensation.  You can contact us 24/7 by submitting a contact form online, or by calling (844) 444-4444.