It’s a simple question with a simple answer. Claimants wantmoney. How much is another question and varies depending upon theindividual situation and facts. Attempting to put a value on anindividual claim depends on the nature of it, the losses sustained,the liability issues which appear and how they may affect all ofthe parties involved, and more. While money is important, it iscertainly not always the only consideration.

In property damage situations it is somewhat easier to calculatethe losses sustained. For example, in a typical auto accident,physical damage to automobiles or trucks may often be calculated bylooking at the vehicle's damage and considering parts and laborcosts incurred for repairs. The matter may involve damageconsidered to be a total loss, and factors such as age andcondition could apply.

Professionals operating in major metropolitan areas like LosAngeles, New York, Chicago and Miami may have claims involvingexpensive autos. Situations where the vehicle is considered a totalloss and cash value is offered to the claimant may be moredifficult to settle. When a vehicle was relatively old but wasgood, dependable and rather inexpensive transportation for theowner, its low cash value may upset the claimant who feels thesettlement offered is insufficient to allow him to acquire similartransportation. Explaining the offer from the insurer’s view issometimes a difficult exercise. If the adjuster has some latitudewith respect to value, then reaching an amicable agreement is morelikely.