JOB TITLE: TORT CLAIMS REPRESENTATIVE

JOB CODE: 70341

SERIES NATURE OF WORK: The Tort Claims job series describes work in the investigation, evaluation, negotiation, and disposition of tort claims that are filed against commonwealth agencies or entities due to agency or employee negligence.

DEFINITION: This is beginning level professional work in the investigation and adjudication of tort claims pertaining to automobile and other property damages.

An employee in this job investigates automobile and property damage claims to determine liability and achieve settlement in a fair and expeditious manner. Work involves interviewing claimants and witnesses, traveling to incident locations to collect on-site evidence, determining claim eligibility under the Sovereign Immunity Act, preparing reports of findings, and authorizing or denying claim payments. Work includes logging incoming claims, updating and maintaining case files, responding to inquiries from claimants and attorneys, and identifying subrogation opportunities for further review. Work is performed independently and reviewed by an administrative supervisor in process and upon completion for adherence to procedures, standards, and timelines. EXAMPLES OF WORK: (NOTE: The examples of work are representative of the work, but every position classified to this job may not perform all examples of work listed. Conversely, this is not an all-inclusive list of work examples.) • Determines eligibility and liability of claims under the Sovereign Immunity Act. • Investigates automobile and property damage claims filed by individuals seeking compensation for common property damages due to accidents involving commonwealth vehicles. • Assesses liability for damage to vehicles from highway line paint or tar, damage to mailboxes or fences from snowplow operations, and damage to property at state parks from fallen trees. • Obtains and reviews property damage claim information, such towing receipts, rental vehicle charges, and replacement costs of items damaged in a car accident.

• Interviews witnesses, claimants, and other involved parties to record statements and verify information.

• Obtains and evaluates evidence such as accident reports, photographs, witness statements, police and weather reports, insurance and vehicle records, and other supportive documents.

• Interprets investigative findings to determine liable parties.

• Denies claims having no liability, doubtful liability, or comparatively less negligence than other involved parties.

• Authorizes claim payments up to an established amount; seeks guidance and approval from higher-level staff for claims exceeding this amount.

• Maintains an electronic filing system for tort claims.

• Prepares formal reports for review by a Tort Claims Evaluator and correspondence to claimants in response to inquiries.

• Identifies subrogation opportunities and informs bureau staff.

• Performs related work as required.

ENTRY LEVEL KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of interviewing practices and techniques.

• Knowledge of mathematics, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division using whole numbers, dollars amount, and percentages.

• Knowledge of technical writing principles.

• Knowledge of the use and functionality of Microsoft Office Suite software.

• Ability to objectively evaluate information and justify recommendations, evaluations, and decisions.

• Ability to analyze and interpret rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.

• Ability to communicate effectively orally.

• Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: (NOTE: Based on the Entry Level Knowledges, Skills and abilities)

• A bachelor’s degree;

or

• Two years of technical experience in evaluating or processing claims, or interviewing consumers to obtain or review financial, insurance or personal information or records to determine next actions, and an associate’s degree;

or

• Four years of technical experience in evaluating or processing claims or interviewing consumers to collect or review financial, insurance, or personal information or records to determine next actions;

or

• An equivalent combination of experience and training.