A car insurance claims adjuster is the professional responsible for investigating your car accident and determining how much the insurance company should pay for repairs or replacement.
After an accident in Illinois, the adjuster will inspect your vehicle, review the police report and evidence, and evaluate your policy coverage to calculate a fair settlement. They act as a liaison between you and the insurance company, making sure the claim is handled promptly and according to the policy. If you have questions about a car insurance claim in Illinois,
Insure on the Spot is here to help. Call us at 773-202-5060 for assistance.
What is a Claims Adjuster and What Do They Do?
A claims adjuster (also known as an insurance adjuster) is the professional who manages your insurance claim from start to finish. Their main job is to investigate the claim, assess the damage, review your policy, and negotiate the settlement. In essence, they determine how much the insurance company should pay for your claim while ensuring the payment aligns with your policy’s terms.
Steps a Claims Adjuster Takes:
- Investigating the accident: The adjuster gathers information, including reviewing the police report, interviewing you and any witnesses, and sometimes visiting the accident scene.
- Inspecting vehicle damage: The adjuster assesses the damage to your car, often through a physical inspection or photos, and may send you to an approved body shop for a repair estimate.
- Reviewing your insurance coverage: They check your policy to confirm that it’s active and determine which coverages apply (e.g., collision coverage for your car or liability coverage if you were at fault).
- Determining claim value: The adjuster calculates the settlement amount based on repair costs, vehicle value, and any other costs like medical bills.
- Negotiating the settlement: The adjuster makes a settlement offer, negotiating with you and/or the other party to reach an acceptable agreement.
- Assisting with related needs: The adjuster helps arrange for towing, repairs, or rental cars and guides you on the next steps during the claims process.
The adjuster’s job is critical in ensuring your claim is handled fairly and in a timely manner, following Illinois law and the terms of your insurance policy.
What Should You Expect from a Claims Adjuster After an Accident in Illinois?
When you file a claim after a car accident in Illinois, here’s what you can expect:
- Prompt contact: After you report the accident, the adjuster should reach out within a reasonable time frame. Illinois law requires insurers to acknowledge new claims within 15 working days.
- Information gathering: The adjuster will ask for accident details and evidence such as photos, the police report, and witness contact information. They may also contact the other party involved in the accident.
- Vehicle inspection: The adjuster will arrange to inspect your car, either in person or by using photos of the damage. They may also work with a professional appraiser or body shop to assess repair costs.
- Evaluation of coverage: The adjuster reviews your policy to confirm the coverages that apply and the amount you’ll be responsible for paying (i.e., your deductible). In Illinois, which follows an “at-fault” insurance system, the other party’s insurance may be involved if they are at fault.
- Claim settlement: The adjuster will provide a settlement offer based on their investigation, repair estimates, and your coverage. If your car is repairable, the settlement will cover repair costs minus the deductible. If your car is totaled, the offer will be based on the car’s actual cash value.
- Guidance on next steps: The adjuster will assist with arranging repairs or paying the settlement. They’ll keep you informed and help with any additional steps, such as submitting extra documentation.
The claims adjuster will ensure the process moves forward efficiently. In Illinois, insurers must handle claims promptly, so the adjuster’s role is to meet these obligations and keep you informed.
Who Does the Insurance Claims Adjuster Work For?
The claims adjuster works for the insurance company. Whether they are a salaried employee (staff adjuster) or an independent contractor, their primary duty is to settle the claim in a way that aligns with the insurance policy and helps the insurer keep costs reasonable. While adjusters aim to settle claims fairly, their responsibilities lie with the insurance company, not the policyholder.
However, adjusters are expected to perform their work impartially, gathering and analyzing facts to ensure a fair resolution. If you disagree with the adjuster’s offer, you can seek a second opinion or involve a public adjuster to represent your interests.
Tips for Working With a Claims Adjuster (and Getting a Fair Settlement)
Dealing with an insurance claim can be stressful, but here are some helpful tips to ensure a fair outcome:
- Report the claim promptly: Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Timely reporting allows the adjuster to begin the process immediately.
- Provide accurate information: Share complete and truthful details about the accident and provide all requested documentation (photos, police reports, repair estimates).
- Keep records of communication: Log all conversations with the adjuster, including emails, phone calls, and key points discussed.
- Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you don’t understand something about the claim. A good adjuster will gladly explain the details.
- Know your policy: Understand your coverage, deductible, and any special clauses in your policy. This helps you know what to expect during the claims process.
- Be cooperative and courteous: Treat the adjuster with professionalism. Being calm and cooperative can help speed up the process.
- Don’t rush to settle: If the initial settlement offer seems too low, take time to evaluate it and gather supporting evidence before agreeing. You don’t have to accept the first offer right away.
What if You Disagree with the Insurance Adjuster’s Estimate?
If you feel that the adjuster’s settlement offer is too low, you can:
- Ask for an explanation: Speak with the adjuster about how they arrived at the estimate. This can help clarify any misunderstandings.
- Provide additional evidence: If you have supporting documents, such as higher repair estimates or proof of your car’s value, provide them to the adjuster to support your case.
- Involve your agent: If you purchased your insurance through Insure on the Spot, your agent can help advocate for you and ensure the claim is handled fairly.
- Escalate the issue: If you still disagree, you can ask for a review from the adjuster’s supervisor or consider hiring a public adjuster or attorney.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Car Insurance Claim?
The time to settle a claim varies depending on the complexity of the accident:
- Simple claims: Minor accidents without injuries or disputes can be settled within a few days to a couple of weeks.
- Complex claims: Claims involving injuries or disputes may take several weeks to months to resolve.
- Factors affecting the timeline: The severity of the damage, investigation needs, communication, and the insurance company’s internal processes all impact the timeline.
In Illinois, insurers are expected to handle claims promptly, typically resolving simple claims within a month.
Conclusion: The Value of a Good Adjuster in Your Insurance Experience
A skilled claims adjuster is key to a smooth and fair claims process. By following the steps outlined and cooperating with your adjuster, you can ensure that your claim is handled efficiently and according to your policy. If you need assistance at any point, Insure on the Spot is ready to help Illinois drivers. Call 773-202-5060 for guidance and a free quote on your auto insurance coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does a claims adjuster do?
A: A claims adjuster investigates insurance claims, inspects the damage, reviews the insurance policy, and negotiates the settlement. They determine how much the insurer should pay for the claim and ensure the payout is fair.
Q: What skills and qualities are important for a claims adjuster?
A: Claims adjusters need strong analytical skills, good communication, attention to detail, and the ability to negotiate fairly. Empathy and organizational skills are also important for managing claims effectively.
Q: How do you become a claims adjuster?
A: To become a claims adjuster, you need a high school diploma (or higher), and in some states, you must pass a licensing exam. In Illinois, adjusters working for insurance companies are not required to have a state license, but public adjusters must be licensed.
Q: What are the types of claims adjusters?
A: There are three main types of claims adjusters:
- Staff adjusters work for an insurance company.
- Independent adjusters are contracted by insurance companies.
- Public adjusters work for the policyholder, not the insurer.
Q: Do claims adjusters need a license?
A: In most states, claims adjusters must obtain a license. In Illinois, staff adjusters don’t need a license, but public adjusters must be licensed.
Q: Where do claims adjusters work?
A: Claims adjusters can work from an insurance company office, remotely, or travel to accident sites for inspections. Independent adjusters often work from home and cover larger territories.
Q: How much do claims adjusters make?
A: The average salary for a claims adjuster is around $60,000 per year, but it can vary based on experience and location.
Q: Is being an insurance claims adjuster a stressful job?
A: It can be stressful, especially during busy times or after large accidents. However, many adjusters find the job rewarding because of the variety and the ability to help others.
Q: How can I negotiate with an insurance adjuster?
A: If the offer seems too low, ask the adjuster for a breakdown of the estimate and provide any additional evidence that supports your case.
Q: How long does an insurance adjuster have to respond to a claim?
A: In Illinois, insurers must acknowledge your claim within 15 working days and begin the investigation promptly.
Get a Quote Today!
If you need assistance with an auto insurance claim or have questions about your coverage, Insure on the Spot is here to help. Call us at 773-202-5060 for fast and fair service.