Today we are talking about a very important step in your motorcycle collision repairs process – photography. You might not be a photographer. You might not even know what comprises a good photograph, but if you have an iPhone, then you can take insurance claim photos. The main thing to remember is that you can never take too many photos.
We at American Auto Body and Collision are ready to help you throughout the whole process of getting your vehicle repaired. We are one of the only repair shops who specializes in motorcycle collision repairs here in Tulsa. For more information, call us at 918-323-4909 or email us at info@americanabac.com.
What is an Insurance Claim Photo For?
When you file an insurance claim, you are stating that you’ve been in a car accident and that you need money to fix your car. This process can be complicated, but the main takeaway is that insurance companies have the power to deny your claim if you don’t provide proper proof that you were in an accident.
Why is it Important?
The importance of an insurance claim photo is pretty clear. These photos are reviewed by the person who is reviewing your insurance claim. So you want to make sure that you get as many photos as you possibly can of the damage, of you, of them and of anything else that was affected by the motorcycle collision or car crash.
7 Photography Tips for taking an Insurance Claim Photo
So without further ado, here are the photography tips that will make sure you don’t run into any issues with your insurance claim based upon the types of photos you’ve taken. Remember if you don’t understand something, call American Auto Body and Collision in Tulsa at 918-323-4909 or email us at info@americanabac.com.
Check everyone for injuries FIRST
So you just got in a car wreck, I’m sure the first thought running through your mind isn’t, “Man I really need to hurry and make sure that I get all of the photos that I need for my insurance claim.” In fact, that probably won’t even cross your mind if you don’t make sure to slow down and take a few breaths first.
The first thing to do is make sure YOU are ok. Photos won’t matter if you aren’t able to move or function. Make sure that your body isn’t just tricking because of some adrenaline that’s coursing through your veins. Take a minute. Think about what you’re doing and make sure that you haven’t sustained any damage.
Only after you’re sure that you are ok should you make sure others are also ok.
#1 Take the photos as soon as possible
Ok so everyone is ok that’s a good thing. Next, you need to make sure you take the photos of your surroundings as fast as possible. You don’t want to be taking photos after everything’s cleared away and cleaned up because the whole point is to show the damages.
#2 Take photos from all 4 angles
The more angles the better. If there’s any square footage that isn’t covered by a photo, TAKE ANOTHER PHOTO. Remember this is a digital device, you aren’t paying for these photos so take them like they’re free. If you have damage to property, make sure you take photos of those things in all angels too.
#3 Get the details. Get the details in perspective.
The next thing you need to do is take photos not only from all angles but with various zooms. We want to get the small details and we want to get the small details in perspective to the bigger picture. In practice this means walking up really close to specific scratches and damage that has lots of details. It also means walking back away from the crash and showing the scene as a whole.
Note: Make sure you check your surroundings. Remember there are cars still going by you and remain vigilant to ensure you don’t get hit…again.
#4 Photograph all Injuries
The next step is to photograph all injuries. You need to get a complete picture of everything that happened in the aftermath of the car crash. The same things we discussed in points 2 and 3 apply here in this point. Just make sure that you do the best you possibly can to get all the details.
#5 Photograph Everyone’s Documents
Next thing you need to do is remember to photograph everyone’s insurance information. You need to take pictures of all their documentation (and exchange phone numbers).
#6 Take more Photos than Necessary
We’ve already covered this but it bears repeating. Take as many photos as you POSSIBLY can. Remember there’s no possible way to reshoot photos if you missed something. That means you can’t mess it up the first time. The best way to do that is to take as many pictures as humanly possible.
#7 Damage of Cars, Surroundings, Debris, Skid Marks, Street Signs
Take photos more than just the damage to your car. Take pictures of ALL your surroundings. If you damage a street sign or a mailbox – take a picture. If your car or bike is busted up across a large space, make sure you take pictures of all the roads where your car parts are located.
#8 (Bonus) Don’t use Filters
It might go without saying, but I’m going to say it. Remember that these photos aren’t for artistic purposes. It’s great that you have friends who might want to know about your car wreck, but this isn’t the time to take the perfect Facebook or Snapchat photo. There might be time after you’ve taken the important photos (maybe…), but make sure that you aren’t taking photos with weird face filters, color distortions or anything else that will distort the photo from reality.
Call American Auto Body and Collision
So you’ve had a motorcycle collision and need repairs in Tulsa. You’ve come to the right place. We are ready to rebuild or replace your motorcycle parts to get you back on the road as fast as possible.
Check out some of our Motorcycle Collision Repairs testimonials with people just like you who we have been able to work with.
For more information call us at 918-323-4909 or email us at info@americanabac.com.
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