Documenting damage for an insurance claim: the photos and paperwork checklist
The single biggest factor in whether your insurance claim is processed in 2 days or drags out for 3 weeks is the quality of documentation you provide upfront. Adjusters work through a queue; well-documented claims get approved fast because there's nothing for them to question. This checklist covers exactly what to document and how to deliver it.
Photos: at the scene if possible, and afterward at home
If the damage just happened and you're at the scene, take photos before moving the vehicle. Wide shots showing both vehicles' positions, close-ups of contact points, photos of any debris, license plates of all involved vehicles, and visible road conditions.
If you've already left the scene or the damage isn't from a recent collision, take photos at home: a wide shot of the entire vehicle, close-ups of every damaged area, and photos showing the damaged area in context with surrounding panels. Use diffused outdoor light (overcast or shade), not direct sun.
A Chassly assessment doubles as professional documentation; many adjusters accept the report PDF as initial damage evidence. The per-part breakdown with severity ratings is exactly the format adjusters expect.
Documents to gather within 48 hours
Police report number (if one was filed). Collision claims with another party almost always require this. If no report was filed at the scene, you can typically file one within 24-72 hours by visiting your local precinct.
Other driver's information: name, address, phone, license number, license plate, insurance company, policy number. Take a photo of their insurance card and license.
Witness contact information. Get name, phone, and a brief account of what they saw, ideally written or texted. Witnesses become harder to track down as time passes.
Receipts for any towing, immediate repairs, or rental car costs you've already incurred. Insurance reimburses these only if you can prove them.
Your own policy declarations page (current). Knowing your deductible, coverage limits, and rental coverage details before you call helps you ask the right questions.
Filing the claim itself
Most insurers offer 24/7 claims filing through their app or website. Filing online is usually faster and creates a clear paper trail. If you call, take notes including the rep's name, the time, and the claim number you're given.
Be factual. Describe what happened without speculating about fault or motive. 'A blue Toyota traveling north hit my driver-side door while I was stopped at the light' is better than 'The other driver wasn't paying attention and ran into me.' Speculation about fault can complicate your claim.
Submit your photos and Chassly report through the app's upload feature. Email submissions sometimes get lost in queues; in-app uploads are tied directly to your claim number.
Working with the adjuster
An adjuster will typically be assigned within 1-3 business days. They may want to inspect the vehicle in person, especially for major damage or anything over $5,000. Schedule the inspection promptly; delays here are the most common cause of claim slowdowns.
Get an independent body shop estimate before the adjuster's inspection if you can. If their adjuster's estimate is significantly lower than the body shop's quote, having the shop's documentation gives you leverage to push back.
You're not required to use insurance-preferred body shops. Adjusters often suggest specific shops, but you have the right to choose. Independent shops sometimes do higher-quality work; insurer-preferred shops often guarantee faster turnaround. Choose based on your priority.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to file a claim after an incident?
Most insurers require notification within 30 days, though policies vary. File as soon as practical. Even if you're not sure you want to pursue the claim, opening it preserves your right to do so later. You can withdraw a claim that's been opened.
What if I don't have the other driver's information?
If you have the license plate, insurance can usually identify the driver through DMV records. If you don't have any identifying info (a hit-and-run), file under your collision coverage if you have it, or under uninsured motorist coverage if not.
Should I get repairs done before the adjuster sees the car?
No. Always wait for the adjuster's inspection (or explicit approval) before starting repairs. Repairing first can cause your claim to be denied or significantly reduced because the original damage can't be verified.
Can I use my Chassly assessment as the primary damage estimate?
It's strong supplementary evidence but typically not the primary estimate insurers use. Adjusters use industry estimating systems (Mitchell, CCC, Audatex) that integrate with shop networks. Your Chassly report is best treated as initial documentation that supports the case for whatever shop estimate you ultimately submit.