This is field investigative and claims adjusting work at the advanced performance level. Employees in this class gather and review detailed information for the purpose of determining the City's liability in personal injury, property loss, damage, and related claims. Effecting out-of-court settlements is significant to the work. The class is distinguished from the next lower class by the complexity and the dollar value of the claims assigned. Work is performed under the general direction of a Claims Manager.

ALLOCATING FACTORS: (The following conditions must be met for a position to be approved for this class.)

• The position must be responsible for effecting out-of-court settlements.
• The position must handle complex claims cases with significant monetary value.
• The position must be located in the Law Department.

• Conducts preliminary investigation to secure facts; sends documents to claimants acknowledging receipt of the claim; investigates statements received by claimants; visits the scene of the accident; searches for additional evidence, makes rough sketches of the scene indicating appropriate landmarks; directs the photographing of the scene or personally photographs the area.
• Researches and interprets various statutes relating to municipal traffic regulations, general provisions of the Motor Vehicle Code, ordinances covering the water and sewer system; the Pennsylvania Bulletin and any applicable legislation to determine relevance and/or application to claim being researched; applies pertinent legislation in the determination of liability.
• Examines City directories and public records to verify property ownership and related data; contacts representatives of City departments to obtain further information; prepares a report of findings, and makes recommendations concerning the degree of liability.
• Confers with claimants in an attempt to effectuate out-of-court settlements; secures answers to interrogatories prepared by counsel; visits the scene of disasters such as cave-ins, explosions, water main breaks and other catastrophes; evaluates the scope and extent of damage; obtains statements from witnesses, police, other City agencies and individuals.
• Serves subpoenas for witnesses to appear in court; testifies in court as a witness; prepares reports of various phases of the investigation.
• Performs related work as required.

• the methods and techniques used in investigating and adjusting personal injury, property loss and damage claims.
• the laws and rules of evidence, judicial processes and general principles of law relating to personal injury, property loss and damage claims.
• methods, techniques, and equipment used in surveillance activities and taking photographs.
• the general provisions of the Motor Vehicle Code, municipal traffic regulations and ordinances covering the water and sewer system.
• interviewing techniques.

• eliciting and providing clear and concise information.

• analyze and evaluate facts and evidence involving legal liability in order to effect proper adjustment and settlement of claims.
• obtain information through interviews, interrogations and observations and to record details accurately.
• express ideas effectively, both orally and in writing.
• establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates and the public.
• prepare narrative reports.
• secure the cooperation of others.
• perform photographic work of limited complexity.

EDUCATION

• Completion of two years of course work at an accredited college or university.

• Three years of experience adjusting personal injury, property loss, and damage claims.

• Ability to physically perform the duties and to work in the environmental conditions required of a position in this class.

• Possession of a valid proper class motor vehicle operator's license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania prior to appointment and during tenure of employment as a Claims Adjuster II.

PAY RANGE: 19
Class Established: 11/1959

Spec. Revision: 7/1991

RH/sr/ps