United Fire Group
Claims Department
Cedar Rapids, IA

INSIDE CLAIMS REPRESENTATIVE

JOB SUMMARY

Investigate, through correspondence or telephone, assigned property and liability claims. On occasion may be asked to make an on-scene inspection to take photos etc. Examine policy forms to verify coverage, interview claimants or witnesses, obtain police or hospital reports, appraisals and all other information pertinent to the claim, analyze, evaluate, negotiate and settle claims.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

1. Review assignments to determine the nature of the claim and action required as well as coverages involved. Make telephone contact with insureds or claimants within 24 hours.
2. Conduct telephone interviews, taking recorded statements from insureds, claimants, witnesses and others possessing facts concerning the claim. Contact repair shops, police or any other person(s) having knowledge of the incident. Interview injured persons to determine extent and severity of potential loss.
3. When necessary, assign to outside claims representatives to inspect property, obtain photographs, verify data and to personally verify the medical condition of injured persons.
4. Review and interpret policy coverages to determine whether the claim is payable under the policy, deductible, actual cash value or replacement cost. Recommend reserves to supervisor or make necessary reserve changes under AFA program.
5. Write reports for the claim file to document all activity related to loss.
6. Evaluate the loss/damages.
7. Prepare files for arbitration.
8. Negotiate with contractors or repair facilities regarding extent of damage and method of repair. Recover salvage and sell to appropriate salvage buyer.
9. Keep current on court cases, changes in law, values and prices of property and materials.
10. Promote positive working relationships with agents.
11. Participate in company sponsored educational programs to develop and maintain knowledge of products, producers and industry trends.
12. Perform other job duties as assigned.
13. Regular attendance.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES

Must have knowledge of the law (civil, traffic, contractual), construction, medicine, auto and building repair, math, mechanical aptitude, repair techniques, labor and material prices. Must be able to read, comprehend and interpret policy language and apply to loss. Possess analytical ability to determine reserves. Must possess negotiation skills, human relations skills, analytical skills, organizational skills, as well as oral and written communication skills. Must be able to work with little guidance or direction.

EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION

College degree preferred and one to three years prior insurance claims experience (multiline a plus).

EQUIPMENT

Must be able to operate dictaphone, telephone, calculator, copier, form books, resource material, NADA and other evaluation material.