What is a characteristic of an independent adjuster?

An independent adjuster is characterized by operating as a contractor for adjusting firms rather than being employed directly by an insurance company. This means they are typically hired on a temporary or project basis to handle specific claims, allowing them to provide their services to multiple insurance companies and clients without being tied to one organization. This independence can lead to a perception of neutrality and impartiality as they are not on the payroll of the insurance carrier, allowing them to assess claims objectively.

In contrast, the other options describe roles or characteristics that do not align with the independent status of an adjuster. For example, being employed by an insurance company indicates a company employee, while working directly with insured clients may suggest a different relationship than that of an independent contractor. Additionally, providing legal representation is not a function of an adjuster; rather, this role falls under the purview of attorneys who specialize in insurance claims or disputes.