Should you trust the insurance adjuster?

Answer 1

An insurance adjuster is the individual who is charged with investigating losses claimed under an insurance policy. What most people fail to realize, is that the adjuster is:

1. Bound by the terms of the policy (which is a binding contract); and

2. Required by law to adhere to the provisions of the contract.

Television ads by attorneys often warn the public not to talk to an adjuster. What these ads don't reveal is that if you are the insured under the contract, you have a duty to cooperate with the insurance company in an attempt to investigate and settle the claim. That means you have an obligation to give a statement, submit to a physical examination (if injuries are claimed), turn over any relevant documents or evidence and reveal any witnesses or other relevant information. Failure to do so may invalidate a claim and release the company from its obligation to pay damages.

You always have the right to employ an attorney to represent your interests, but before you give away 25%, 33% or more of your recovery, see what the adjuster is going to do. Most adjusters try to do a good job.