I totally get what you mean about the weird photo requests. When I got my first policy, they wanted a shot of my odometer and even the glove box (??). I kept thinking, are they checking for snacks or something? It does feel like a lot of hoops, but I guess it’s their way of covering every angle. At least you ended up with a better rate—my friend in Jersey said it’s just as bad there, so maybe it’s not just Delaware. Still, every time I see an email from them, I brace myself...
At least you ended up with a better rate—my friend in Jersey said it’s just as bad there, so maybe it’s not just Delaware.
Honestly, I’d argue Delaware’s worse if you’ve got any dings on your record. I get the logic behind the photos, but it feels like overkill—especially for those of us already paying higher premiums. I had to send in a pic of my backseat once. Not sure what risk that’s mitigating...
Finding decent car insurance in Delaware without losing your mind
Can’t say I’m surprised about the backseat photo thing, honestly. Last year, my provider wanted pics of my tires and dashboard, which made sense... then they asked for one of the trunk. What are they checking for, a secret stash of reckless squirrels? Anyway, here’s how I keep my rates from getting too wild:
First, shop around every renewal—don’t just auto-renew because it’s easy. Even with a ticket or two, I’ve found switching can save a chunk. Second, check if your employer or any clubs you’re in have group discounts. I didn’t think my warehouse gig would qualify, but turns out there was a small break.
Third, when they ask for photos, just send what they need and move on. It’s weird, but fighting it only drags things out and sometimes bumps up your rate if you look “uncooperative.”
Last tip: raise your deductible if you can swing it in an emergency. That alone knocked $20/month off mine.
It’s not perfect—Delaware definitely feels more nitpicky than Jersey—but with some effort you can avoid getting totally gouged.
That trunk photo thing cracked me up too—like, what are they expecting to find back there, a family of raccoons? I swear, next they’ll want a selfie with your glovebox. Out of curiosity, has anyone actually had their rates go up just for missing a photo request? I’ve always just sent the pics and moved on, but I wonder if it’s really that big a deal.
Never had my rates go up just for missing a photo, but I did get a bunch of annoying reminder emails once when I forgot to send the odometer shot. Honestly, feels like they’re just looking for reasons to hassle you sometimes.
