What Does an Insurance Adjuster Do?
An insurance adjuster handles a claim from start to finish. Their tasks usually include:
- Reviewing the policy to confirm coverage
- Investigating the accident, including reports, photos, and statements
- Deciding who was at fault and by how much
- Reviewing medical records and bills
- Making settlement offers and negotiating
There are staff adjusters, who are insurer employees, and independent adjusters, who contract with insurers. Public adjusters work for policyholders on property claims.
Who the Adjuster Works For
The adjuster works for the insurance company. That is true even when they are friendly and seem helpful.
After a crash, you may deal with two adjusters: one from the other driver’s insurer for your injury claim, and one from your own insurer for PIP or uninsured motorist coverage. Texas is an at-fault state, so the at-fault driver’s insurer is responsible for your injury damages up to policy limits.
Common Adjuster Tactics
Adjusters often try to lower what a claim is worth. Watch for:
- Early recorded statements used to find inconsistencies or admissions of fault
- Quick, low offers made before you know the full extent of your injuries
- Broad medical authorizations that open your entire health history
- Blaming a prior condition for your current pain
- Pointing to gaps in treatment as proof you were not really hurt
- Delay, hoping you will accept less
How to Deal With an Adjuster
Report the claim, but keep conversations short and factual. Do not guess about speed or fault, and do not downplay injuries. Do not sign a release or medical authorization without understanding it. A settlement release usually ends the claim permanently.
If you suspect unfair treatment, Chapter 541 of the Insurance Code sets the rules insurers must follow. A free case review can help you decide how to respond to an adjuster.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is an insurance adjuster?
An insurance adjuster is an insurance company employee or contractor who handles a claim. They gather facts, review the policy, judge who was at fault, estimate damages, and make settlement offers. Staff adjusters work directly for the insurer, while independent adjusters are hired by insurers on a contract basis.
Should I give a recorded statement to the other driver's adjuster?
You are not required to. Adjusters may use recorded answers to argue you were partly at fault or that your injuries are minor. You can decline politely and provide basic information in writing. Your own policy may require you to cooperate with your own insurer, so read it.
What is a public or private adjuster?
A public adjuster is hired by a policyholder, not an insurer, to help with a property damage claim under their own policy. They are not typically used for injury claims against another driver. For a bodily injury claim, an injury lawyer handles the dealings with the adjuster.
What if an adjuster is acting unfairly?
Texas Insurance Code Chapter 541 prohibits unfair claim settlement practices, such as misrepresenting policy terms or failing to try in good faith to settle a claim when liability is reasonably clear. You can also file a complaint with the Texas Department of Insurance.