Now I always take a ton of photos—different angles, close-ups, even one with something for scale (like my keys).
Funny you mention the keys—I’ve used a water bottle before just because it was handy. It does feel like overkill, but after one too many “can you send more pics?” emails, I’m not taking chances. I’d rather look a bit obsessive than have to drive back out to the scene.
I totally get the feeling of looking a bit over-the-top with the photos, but honestly, it’s saved me more than once. I used to just snap a couple shots and call it good—until I had a claim where the adjuster kept asking for “better context” or “clearer details.” Ended up having to go back out in the rain to get more pics of a busted bumper. After that, I started throwing in anything for scale—keys, sunglasses, even my hand if nothing else was around.
It might seem like a hassle in the moment, but it’s way less annoying than dragging things out with your insurance company. They’ll find any excuse to ask for more info, especially if you’re dealing with a hit-and-run or something where details matter. I’ve even started taking a quick video walkaround too, just in case. It’s not about being paranoid, just saves time and headaches later.
One thing I learned the hard way: make sure your photos are actually clear. I once sent in a bunch of blurry shots because my phone lens was smudged, and the adjuster basically ignored them all. Now I wipe it off before snapping anything—sounds silly, but it makes a difference.
I do think sometimes they ask for extra pics just to stall or cover their bases, but at this point I’d rather be “that person” who sends too much than risk delays. If you’re already at the scene and your adrenaline’s going, it’s easy to forget stuff, so I try to slow down and double-check what I’ve got before leaving.
It’s not overkill if it saves you from another trip or weeks of back-and-forth emails.
Man, I hear you on the blurry photos—been there, done that, and the adjuster acted like I’d sent them abstract art. I used to think snapping a couple shots was enough too, but after my last road trip fiasco (deer vs. fender, guess who lost), I went full detective mode. Still feels a bit much sometimes, but I’d rather look ridiculous than have to relive the whole mess. I do wonder if they really need THAT many angles or if they just like making us jump through hoops... but hey, better safe than sorry, right?
I do wonder if they really need THAT many angles or if they just like making us jump through hoops...
Honestly, I get why it feels like overkill—sometimes even I think, “Do we really need a close-up of every scratch?” But from our side, missing one angle can mean a lot of back-and-forth later. Ever had a claim delayed because they asked for more pics after you’d already cleaned up or moved the car? Curious if anyone’s actually had a claim go smoother with fewer photos, or is it always the more-the-merrier approach?
