Hi Odie, i work daily claims only and have since i begin, which was not that long ago. I was asked to sign a contract when i started with my IA (if not i would'nt be working now) agreeing not to work for any other firms while i was sub contracting with said IA. I am not sure what would happen if i eloped a little, but i dont plan on jeopardizing anything solid. I can imagine i would be let go or starved out if they discovered that i was running for another firm. Additionally they provide all of the essential software and mergable documents for completeing the claims. I f something goes wrong, i.e computer crash etc. we have a computer junkie on hand, and he is always available if there are any problems or questions regarding such issues. I was basically computer illiterate when i entered the business, with exception of knowing how to use email or get on line, but i have came along way thanks to this firm who has coached me, conducts training at least 3 times a year and so on. We are all a family and can lean on one another at all times for help. Several of the guys have extensive experience and are always willing to help and walk you through the odd stuff that is encountered at times with the carrier, questionable losses and proper closing formats. I have never worked a CAT, but It is my understanding that CAT claims pay a better percentage with no cap, where i currently can only invoice up to a certain amount max, but with day claims i am busy most of the time making a regular decent income.
My complaint's with day claims are: I have at times drove very long periods and invoiced virtually nothing after expenses, but there are just as many times that i will drive very little distances be back home the same day and invoice very well, with very little out of pocket expense. Secondly the carrier seems to take their precious time paying the invoice, have been as long as 6 months waiting. This really gets under my skin, especially since they are not shy about raising H@$% about us getting out to inspect, deal with PA"s, Contractors and enter some really bad hair raising on the back of your neck areas. Other than this i am happy and obligated for now to my group and don't plan on going anywhere, because after all they have been the one's to bring me this far, with aloooot more to learn. I have heard the stories about really new adjusters getting a few days training and being sent out to a storm site (Because the carrier's need beating hearts to make contact with the insured's) and after being handed stacks of losses freaking out or folding under pressure and washing out. I thank goodness everyday that i have been as fortunate to have the "on the job training" i have.