CAIA - Certified Automotive Insurance Adjuster Bodily Injury Claim Evaluation Questions and Answers

Question 1

When evaluating a bodily injury claim, which of the following are considered 'special damages'?

Accepted Answer

Medical bills and lost wages

Answer

Pain and suffering

Answer

Loss of enjoyment of life

Answer

Emotional distress

Question 2

An adjuster is using the 'multiplier method' to evaluate the general damages portion of a bodily injury claim. This method involves multiplying the claimant's total special damages by a number, typically between 1.5 and 5. What is the primary factor used to determine the specific multiplier?

Accepted Answer

The severity and long-term impact of the injuries

Answer

The at-fault party's insurance policy limit

Answer

The claimant's attorney's fee structure

Answer

The state's statute of limitations for personal injury

Question 3

A claimant was involved in a rear-end collision and is claiming a soft tissue neck injury. They waited three weeks before seeking any medical treatment. From an adjuster's perspective, what is the MOST likely complication this delay will introduce to the claim evaluation?

Accepted Answer

It will raise questions about the causation of the injury.

Answer

It will be easier to negotiate a lower settlement.

Answer

It will automatically trigger a fraud investigation.

Answer

It will increase the value of the pain and suffering component.

Question 4

In the context of a bodily injury claim, which of the following is the BEST definition of 'general damages'?

Accepted Answer

Non-economic losses such as pain, suffering, and emotional distress.

Answer

Damages paid to the general public fund for accident prevention.

Answer

The total sum of all medical bills and related out-of-pocket expenses.

Answer

Punitive damages awarded by a court to punish the defendant.

Question 5

An adjuster receives a bodily injury claim from an auto accident. The police report clearly indicates the insured was 100% at fault. The claimant has significant, well-documented injuries and medical bills exceeding the insured's policy limits. What is the primary constraining factor for the adjuster when determining the settlement offer?

Accepted Answer

The liability limits of the insured's policy

Answer

The severity of the claimant's injuries

Answer

The amount of the claimant's lost wages

Answer

The potential for a high jury verdict at trial

Question 6

Which of the following must be proven by the claimant to have a successful bodily injury claim?

Accepted Answer

The defendant owed a duty of care and breached that duty, directly causing the injury.

Answer

The defendant had a history of reckless behavior.

Answer

The claimant has no pre-existing medical conditions.

Answer

The defendant was issued a traffic citation at the scene.