With nearly everyone having a cell phone in their pocket or purse, and many of those phones having built-in cameras, taking photographs in conjunction with the filing of insurance claims has never been easier. Photos can play a big part in the business of insurance, especially homeowner’s insurance and vehicle insurance.
Cameras may be used to document the existence and condition of property, such as jewelry, artwork or other personal possessions, before a loss occurs. Cameras may also be used to verify damage that’s been done to a vehicle in a collision or to a home after a break-in or other loss caused by a covered peril.
Camera Use In Homeowner’s Insurance Claims
Having a complete inventory of all the personal possessions in your home is the first step in ensuring that, should something happen that damages or destroys your property, you have an accurate idea of what that property consists of. Taking photos/videos of your property is even better and can be used to support any insurance claims you submit following a burglary, fire or other property-damaging event.
If a vehicle drives off the road and flies through your fence or a tree falls and crashes through your roof you’ll want photos to provide to your insurer. This is especially important if repair efforts are started before an insurance adjuster can come to the scene of the damage.
Camera Use in Vehicle Insurance Claims
A camera can be your most important tool at the scene of a car accident and the pictures you take can have a direct impact on the filing of your claim and the amount of money you later receive. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
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- Take photos of your accident scene as soon as possible after the accident. Your safety and health are more important, so make sure you don’t require medical attention and that it’s safe to walk around and snap photos. If you’re unable to do it yourself, get a passenger or willing witness to take the pictures, or phone a friend.
- Capture the scene from all four sides and take every shot from multiple angles.
- Document every detail, both up close and from several steps back.
- Photograph all your injuries.
- Photograph everyone’s documents.
- Take as many pictures as you can – more than you think are necessary.
- Picture the surrounding area, including debris, skid marks, street sign damage, etc.