A claims adjuster investigates the facts, evaluates coverage and liability, sets reserves, directs defense counsel, and negotiates resolution. Adjusters may be employees, independent contractors, or work for third-party administrators.
Authority levels are tiered, with larger exposures requiring supervisory or committee approval.
Alternative Names:
Adjuster, Claims Professional
Why it Matters?
The adjuster is the client contact for defense counsel in practice, and the working relationship determines how quickly authority is obtained and how well counsel's evaluation is reflected in reserves. Adjuster caseloads are typically heavy, which makes concise, decision-ready reporting substantially more effective than lengthy status letters. In bad faith litigation the adjuster's file notes become the central evidence.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
What decisions does an adjuster control?
Why does reporting style matter?
