Gather the claim numbers, the police report, photos, every estimate and the final repair invoice. For diminished value or total loss claims, add maintenance records and anything that shows your vehicle's condition and equipment before the accident.
Your claim number and the other driver's claim number, adjuster names and contact information, your policy declarations page, and the police report or report number.
Photos of the damage and scene, the insurer's estimate, your repair facility's estimate, any supplements, and the final repair invoice.
Maintenance records, receipts for tires, upgrades or recent major work, the window sticker or build sheet if you have it, and photos from before the accident.
The insurer's valuation report (you can request it under 14VAC5-400-80), plus listings for truly comparable vehicles near you.
Your lease or loan agreement and the lender's or leasing company's contact information.
Write down the date, who you spoke with and what was said for every call. Follow up important calls by email.
Three sides to every claim. I've worked all of them. Geoffrey C. Albach has spent 33 years in the industry as an independent appraiser, a former insurance staff adjuster, and a collision repair operations director.
By Geoffrey C. Albach, independent auto damage appraiser · About Geoff
Related guides: What to Do After a Car Accident in Virginia: Claim Steps · Total Loss: How Actual Cash Value (ACV) Is Determined · Diminished value claims in Virginia · All guides
Areas we serve: Lynchburg · Roanoke · Charlottesville · All areas
Usually the final repair invoice and photos, along with the claim numbers.
It's very helpful, especially when fault is disputed.
Email them to geoff@apexdamageappraisals.com.
General information, not legal advice. Talk to a Virginia attorney about your specific claim.
Call or text Geoff at 434-665-6059. Lynchburg, VA.
