An insurance adjuster is like a detective for insurance claims. They figure out what happened and how much money should be paid for things like accidents and incidents. They use information provided in reports, talk to your workers, and communicate with other parties.

But just like detective they dont start out with all the information and can only follow the facts that are provided. You can help by sharing what you know to move the claim forward timely and accurately.

Here are some things your company should do as soon as an incident occurs. This should be done by the very best safety advocate in your company.

1. Begin your investigation as soon as possible after the loss.

2. Get the big picture first.  Consider making a diagram or taking photos and document them.

3. Talk with the driver or worker involved -- at the scene of the accident or incident, if possible and safe.

4. Talk with other people who know what happened -- witnesses, other employees.  Put each person at ease.  Investigate to get the facts, not to place blame.  Ask questions and repeat the story back to them to be sure you understand all of the circumstances

5. End each interview on a positive note.

6. Look for all of the causes -- unsafe acts, unsafe conditions, contributing factors, and base causes.

7. Be careful of re-enactments.  Don't ask for actions to be repeated.

8. Develop your conclusions.  Confer with others, solicit prevention ideas.

9. Act positively to prevent re-occurrence.  Correct or refer correction to higher authority.

10. Record the facts and make sure they are clear, legibile, and simple to understand.