CALA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CALA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When evaluating a bodily injury demand package, what does the adjuster assess to determine pre-existing conditions? → Prior medical records, prior claims history, and any gap in treatment before the accident
2. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Workers Compensation Claims for CALA professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
3. Which type of damages compensates a bodily injury claimant for physical pain and emotional distress? → General (non-economic) damages
4. Which party is responsible for proving the amount of an auto property damage loss under a standard US policy? → The insured (burden of proof lies with the policyholder)
5. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Catastrophe Claims Handling for CALA professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
6. How can catastrophe adjusters support policyholders during disasters? → Communicate clearly and provide timely updates
7. Which of the following is usually NOT covered under a commercial general liability (CGL) policy? → Intentional acts by the insured
8. Which document best establishes a claimant's lost wages in a bodily injury claim? → A wage verification letter from the employer and recent pay stubs
9. What does continuing education (CE) ensure for licensed adjusters? → They maintain professional knowledge and compliance
10. Which of the following actions by an insured would most likely impair an insurer's subrogation rights? → Releasing the negligent third party from liability before the insurer is notified
11. In Coverage Analysis & Interpretation, what is the FIRST step a CALA professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
12. Which of the following is considered an unethical claims practice? → Delaying payment of a valid claim without cause
13. Which federal law significantly limits health insurer subrogation rights in cases involving employee benefit plans governed by ERISA? → The Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA)
14. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Negotiation & Settlement Techniques for CALA professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
15. Which form is typically used in the US to report a motor vehicle accident to the state's DMV? → SR-1 or equivalent state accident report form
16. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in Workers Compensation Claims? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
17. In property insurance, what is 'actual cash value' (ACV)? → The depreciated value of the item
18. A 'waiver of subrogation' clause in a contract typically benefits which party? → The third party identified in the contract
19. Why is the NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program) important in catastrophe adjusting? → It provides flood insurance under federal guidelines
20. When a conflict arises between standard procedures and a unique situation in Coverage Analysis & Interpretation, what should a CALA professional prioritize? → Safety and ethical obligations while seeking expert consultation
21. Which element is NOT required to establish a valid subrogation right? → The third party must be insolvent
22. When a conflict arises between standard procedures and a unique situation in Workers Compensation Claims, what should a CALA professional prioritize? → Safety and ethical obligations while seeking expert consultation
23. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in Documentation & Reporting Standards? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
24. In Property Damage Assessment, what is the FIRST step a CALA professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
25. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Fraud Detection & Prevention for CALA professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
26. What should an adjuster do if a conflict of interest arises? → Disclose the conflict of interest to appropriate parties
27. Which factor most significantly affects the settlement value of a soft-tissue bodily injury claim? → Duration of treatment and documented medical expenses
28. When inspecting a vehicle for damage, an adjuster should primarily rely on which resource to price parts and labor? → Computerized estimating software such as Mitchell or CCC ONE
29. An adjuster discovers a vehicle's VIN has been altered. What is the primary concern? → Potential vehicle fraud or theft
30. Which of the following best describes liability coverage in an auto insurance policy? → Coverage for injuries or damage caused to others