The 8-Step Accident Photo Checklist
Let’s face it – an accident is stressful enough. The last thing you need is extra frustration when submitting an insurance claim. With more than 30 years of experience in short-term insurance, we’ve learned that the fastest way to a smooth claim is having clear, accurate documentation from the start.
Photos are your best friend when reporting an incident. They help us confirm important details quickly, so we can process your claim and get you back on the road.
Use this simple, 8-point guide to capture every essential detail before leaving the scene.
STEP ZERO: SAFETY, REPORTING & CONTACTS
Before taking any photos, ensure the safety of everyone involved and that the vehicles are moved to a safe location if possible.
- Call the police immediately to report the accident. If they do not arrive, report it to your nearest police station as soon as possible, but no later than 24 hours after the accident. Make sure you obtain a reference number.
- Secure the names and contact details of all parties involved, including any witnesses. If you write down a number, phone it immediately to check that it is correct.
360° PHOTO CHECKLIST
Here’s what to capture before you leave the scene:
SECTION A: DETAILS OF ALL PARTIES
1
Licence Discs & Number Plates:
Take clear, well-lit photos of the licence discs and number plates of all vehicles involved.
2
Driver's Licences:
Capture the driver’s licence of everyone operating a vehicle at the time of the incident (which may not be the policyholder).
3
Your Mileage (Odometer):
Photograph your dashboard, focussing on the odometer reading, to confirm the vehicle’s mileage at the time of the incident.
SECTION B: VEHICLE DAMAGE (THE 360° VIEW)
These shots help us accurately assess the precise location and extent of the damage.
4
Close-up of the Damage:
Take a focused, high-detail shot that clearly shows the area of impact and the resulting damage on all vehicles involved.
5
The Four Corners (Full Vehicle Assessment):
Stand a few steps back and capture four separate, wide-angle “three-quarter” photos of each vehicle. This provides a complete perspective from every angle:
- Left Front (showing the front and left side)
- Right Front (showing the front and right side)
- Right Rear (showing the back and right side)
- Left Rear (showing the back and left side)
6
Side Comparison:
Capture a photo of the entire, undamaged side of your vehicle for easy comparison with the damaged side. Make sure you capture the entire length/width.
SECTION C: THE ACCIDENT SCENE
7
The Immediate Scene:
Take a wide-angle photo of the entire accident scene from a distance, including any skid marks, tire marks, or debris that may have been impacted by the accident.
8
Wide-Angle Surroundings:
Capture a photo showcasing the scene’s surroundings, such as road signs, traffic lights, buildings, or pavements. This evidence is crucial to protect against potential third-party property damage claims (e.g., a damaged street sign).
Quick Tips: Clarity Counts!
- All images must be clearly visible, well-lit, and in focus. If it’s dark, use your phone’s flash or a torch. The better the quality of your photos, the faster your claim can be finalised.
- Accidents are never convenient, but by following these simple, well-documented steps, you can significantly help your insurer handle the claim quickly, accurately and efficiently.
Drive safely, and remember that we are always here to assist you when you need us most.
