How do insurance adjusters estimate damage?
Asked by: Zora Smitham | Last update: July 7, 2025Score: 5/5 (1 votes)
How do insurance adjusters determine damage?
They review several photos of the accident. Then, the insurance representative uses a computer system to calculate the cost of repairs for accident-related damage. If you sustained bodily harm, the adjuster may ask you about your injuries and request medical records.
Do insurance adjusters try lowball?
This strategy is very common in states that follow the principle of pure comparative fault, like California. Under California's laws, your damages will be reduced depending on your percentage of fault. By shifting some of the blame to you, the insurance company could get away with paying less than they should.
How do insurance adjusters determine value?
The insurance adjuster will estimate the value of your vehicle based on the total value of other similar vehicles in your area. This is called the true market value. The insurance adjuster determines this value by checking the actual sales that took place in the area.
What not to tell a claims adjuster?
Some key phrases to avoid saying to an insurance adjuster include: “I'm sorry.” “It was all/partly my fault.” “I did not see the other person/driver.”
Public Adjuster Pros and Cons
How do you beat claims adjuster?
- Write a convincing demand letter to your insurance company.
- Carefully review any settlement offers you receive.
- Reject a settlement offer in writing on your behalf.
- Counter your lowball settlement offer.
What do insurance adjusters check?
Adjusters inspect property damage or personal injury claims to determine how much the insurance company should pay for the loss. They might inspect a home, a business, or an automobile. Adjusters interview the claimant and witnesses, inspect the property, and do additional research, such as look at police reports.
Can you negotiate with adjuster?
Yes, you absolutely can and should negotiate with insurance adjusters. Negotiation is a normal part of the claims process. The first offer is usually not the final one. Insurance companies often start low to see if you'll accept less than what you're entitled to.
Who gets the insurance check when a car is totaled?
If you own the car without any loans or liens, you will receive a check for the value assessed by the insurance company. If there is a loan, the check usually goes first to the leasing company or the lender. If you owe money on the vehicle, you should notify the lending company that your car has been totaled.
How to value items for an insurance claim?
- Create an Inventory of Personal Belongings.
- Assess the Condition.
- Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value.
- Valuating High-Value Items.
- Custom or Specialty Items.
- Calculate Depreciation for Regular Items.
- Documenting Your Findings.
- Consult With Insurance Professionals.
Why is the first settlement offer so low?
Why Do They Always Lowball On The First Settlement Offer? If the insurance company is lucky enough that you accept the first low offer, it's better for them. The less money the insurance company gives you, the better their bottom line.
Should I trust an insurance adjuster?
That said, it's always prudent to use caution when you're speaking to an insurance adjuster after an accident. These individuals have the tough job of thoroughly reviewing your case to determine an appropriate payout, and they may not always have your best interests at the forefront of their minds.
How do I get more money from my adjuster?
Write a letter to your adjuster explaining why you believe the offer was too low. Include copies of any evidence you've gathered, and ask for a response within a specific timeframe, such as five business days. Be polite but direct. Let your adjust know that this offer will not cover your home repairs.
How long does it take for an adjuster to make a decision?
Typically, under the terms of the insurance policy and/or by state law, the adjuster must complete an initial review and send a response within a reasonable amount of time – usually on the order of 30 days.
What happens after adjuster looks at house?
After that, the insurance adjuster will file a report containing their findings and recommendations. Some insurance adjusters can authorize a claim on the spot, but it is more common that you will have to review the report and communicate with the insurance company to finalize the claim.
How do insurance companies determine pre-existing damage?
Adjusters often rely on photographic evidence from before and after the accident. Comparing these can help determine whether damages were pre-existing. Expert assessments. Sometimes, insurance companies will employ the expertise of mechanics or collision repair specialists to assess the vehicle's condition.
Can you ask for more money when your car is totaled?
In some cases, you may get more insurance money for a totaled car than for repairs. In addition, it is possible to negotiate a higher settlement by providing evidence that your car was worth more than the insurance company's initial valuation.
Is it better to have a car totaled or repaired?
Repairing your vehicle is cheaper than taking out a loan or paying monthly payments on a brand-new vehicle. It is often in the best interest of the insurance company to total a car, so you will need to look out for your own best interests.
How do you argue the value of a totaled car?
- Ask for the Valuation Report.
- Research the Comparables on the Valuation Report.
- Dispute Any Condition Adjustments on the Comparables.
- Send Your Own Comparables to the Adjuster.
- Consider Hiring an Appraiser.
What should you not say to a claims adjuster?
Admitting Fault, Even Partial Fault.
Even if you think you may be partly at fault for the accident, do not discuss this with an adjuster. Avoid any language that could be construed as apologetic or blameful.
What is a reasonable settlement figure?
A reasonable proposed settlement figure is one that takes into account the amount of awards juries in your area have made in recent, similar cases. Your initial settlement demand should be a number that's high enough to leave you room for negotiation.
Do you have to accept insurance offer on a totaled car?
Do you have to accept an insurance offer on totaled car? No, you do not have to accept the insurance company's first offer on a totaled car. You can negotiate the offer if you believe it does not reflect the actual cash value of your car.
How do I prepare for an insurance adjuster visit?
Be Prepared: Before you talk to the insurance claims adjuster, make sure you're organized and have all your documentation in order. This preparation includes all relevant documentation that will support your claim, including police reports, medical records, and bills.
How do adjusters determine damage?
Interview those involved: The adjuster will collect recorded statements from people involved in the loss, such as drivers, passengers, and witnesses. They may also review the scene of the accident, police reports, or video footage of the loss, along with any other information related to the loss.
What if I don't agree with my car insurance adjuster?
Dispute the Decision and File a Complaint
Many policies allow you to request arbitration through the insurance company. You'll present evidence to an independent adjuster, who then makes a binding settlement determination. You can also file a complaint with your state department of insurance.