Erik McConnell has been an outstanding claims manager with Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., since he began his career on September 7, 2007. In the course of those 14 years, Erik has successfully managed over 3,000 personal injury claims! That means Erik has helped approximately 3,000 clients resolve their personal injury and property damage claims, as well as the personal injury protection and MedPay claims, when applicable, in Maryland and Virginia, respectively. Erik’s knowledge of the processes and procedures of insurance companies is second to none. He has served as a resource for everyone that works in the claims department, as well as for the lawyers when they came up against a question regarding automobile insurance.
Few people probably realize the importance of the Claims Manager position at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. In law firms practicing in a single state, a claims manager would need to know the applicable policies, procedures, and practices in their state. However, Erik had to know the ins and outs of automobile insurance law in three jurisdictions: DC, Maryland, and Virginia.
Erik informed us in December 2020 of his desire to retire within the next 12 months. In the ultimate demonstration of his professionalism, Erik offered to remain in his position as Senior Claims Manager for as long as it took the law firm to hire a qualified individual to succeed him. We have been fortunate to find such an individual (see the article introducing you to our new claims manager), and Erik’s retirement will begin on September 1, 2021.
Erik was not only a master at his trade, and an invaluable member of the firm because of his expertise, he has also been the life of every luncheon, party, and staff meeting we have had in the last 14 years. And so, Erik will be greatly missed not only because of the professionalism that he offered to each of our clients, but also because of his quick wit and wonderful sense of humor. Although we will miss Erik’s presence, we wish Erik good health, and a long and fruitful retirement.