The insurance claims adjuster job in Georgia involves determining fair compensation for an auto accident claim. The insurance offer is first generated by a computer based on accident information that is input. The adjuster than compares the recommended amount to the documentation that has been submitted including the police report, reported injuries and accident related expenses.
You do not have to wait for an offer and can send a Demand Letter which will be counter-offered. If you do not agree to the compensation amount proposed or your claim is denied, you have several steps you can take to make the accident claims adjuster settle for a fair amount.
Before Filing a Lawsuit
If you want to avoid filing a lawsuit, you can attempt to negotiate on your own first. For example, you can follow the insurance company’s appeal process which usually involves having someone with more authority, like a supervisor or manager, review your claim.
Another option is contacting your state insurance agency by filing a formal complaint. Georgia residents can contact the Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner.
A third option is taking your case to small claims court if the disputed amount falls within the amounts defined by law as small claims. Because the dollar limits you can recover in small claims court are small, the insurance company may agree to pay the amount you are asking. You can represent yourself in this court and are not required to have an attorney though the insurance company will normally have legal representation present.
Don’t Settle Immediately
The insurance claims adjuster will most likely force you to negotiate for any amount you request over his or her settlement offer. The one thing you should not due is settle too easily if you are not being offered a full and fair compensation amount.
If the insurance company adjuster will not agree to negotiate then you will probably need to contact an attorney depending on the amount in question. You can request mediation or arbitration. If they are not viable options then an attorney can handle further negotiations or litigation.
Get Legal Advice
You can get legal advice at any point throughout the claims process if you do not believe you are being treated fairly. Negotiating with an insurance company is a very difficult and frustrating process. If you have been injured in an auto accident and expect to have significant medical bills, it is important to involve an attorney as early in the process as possible.
