WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CAR INSURANCE PHOTO INSPECTIONS?
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, there are a variety of different things to keep in mind. It can be easy to panic. But if you want the claims process to run smoothly, it’s essential to understand how to move forward correctly. If you’ve already had an accident, you might hear the phrase ‘car insurance photo inspection.’
This phrase can be a bit confusing once you dive into it. Below, let’s take a more in-depth look at this topic and how it may impact your auto insurance claim in Phoenix, Arizona.
DIFFERENT CAR INSURANCE PHOTO INSPECTIONS IN ARIZONA
There are two different types of photo inspections in the state of Arizona. If you hear of a photo inspection, it’s critical to clarify which one your insurance company is referring to. Below, let’s take a look at the two types of car insurance photo inspections.
PRE-INSURANCE (BEFORE POLICY ISSUED) PHOTO INSPECTION
This form of insurance photo inspection occurs before a policy comes into effect. This type of photo ensures that the actual condition of the vehicle is verified before the policy is issued. This process helps protect insurance providers from having to pay for damages that already existed.
Alternatively, it also helps you avoid insurance companies attempting to claim that damage to your vehicle was pre-existing. The inspector may also take photos of your odometer and other accessories within your car to confirm details about your vehicle.
Depending on where you’re living, these types of photos may be required by law.
CLAIMS INSPECTION PHOTO (CAR ACCIDENT)
After an accident has occurred, some insurance companies require photographic proof of the damage from the crash.
THE INSURANCE PHOTO INSPECTION PROCESS
The photo process varies depending on the insurance provider that you’re working with. In some cases, you’ll have an adjuster that will come to your home or the scene of the crash to take photos with his camera. This process is an added level of protection for the insurance provider.
Other insurance companies are much more relaxed. They may give you the option to send in your photos — but they will verify them if they feel something is fishy.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD YOU EXPECT?
Once the process is complete, the adjuster will use your photos and other evidence to determine the cost of the damage to your car. Once the total loss is assessed, you’ll receive an estimate on the cost of repairs or market value if the vehicle is totaled. If you don’t’ think that adjuster provided you with a fair repair payment, you can dispute the payment and file an appeal.
In some cases, you may not be able to agree with your insurance company on market value. If that happens, do not to take the settlement until you are satisfied with the amount.
DISCUSS YOUR ACCIDENT WITH A LAWYER
If you’ve recently had a car accident, it’s critical to speak to a qualified attorney to protect your interests. There are a variety of different things that can go wrong if you don’t use an attorney after an accident. It’s often a good idea to consult with legal professionals if you have any questions about claims, injuries, or compensation.