How to Take Photos for Car Insurance Inspection?
2 Answers
To take photos for car insurance inspection, follow these steps: Step 1: Take photos of the car body. Prepare a newspaper of the day and take photos from four angles: front left, front right, rear left, and rear right. Step 2: Take a clear photo of the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Include the newspaper header (showing the current date) together with the VIN in the photo, ensuring both the VIN and the current date are clearly visible. Step 3: If the vehicle has any damage, additional close-up photos of the damaged areas are required. Basic requirements for inspection photos: 1. Number of photos: No fewer than 5 photos (4 car body photos + 1 VIN photo). 2. Photo angle: Take photos at a 45-degree angle to the car body. 3. Time display requirement: The photos must clearly show the shooting time (if the camera does not have a date display function, the front-page date of the newspaper must be used as proof). 4. Other requirements: (1) The shooting location should have sufficient light, with no obstructions on the car body, and all windows and doors should be properly closed. (2) The inspection photos should clearly reflect the condition of the car body, with no glare or signs of artificial modification.
I have quite some experience in taking photos for car insurance inspections, and I feel the key is to be thorough and clear. First, find an open and safe location, such as your own garage or an empty parking lot, with good lighting—preferably during the day. Take a front shot of the entire front of the car, including the license plate. For the side view, show the doors and tire treads. Don’t forget to capture the rear of the car and the license plate from the back—details matter. Also, take some photos of the interior, like the seats and the dashboard. The VIN code is especially important; it’s located at the corner of the windshield or inside the door—make sure it’s clear and free of glare. Open the hood and take a photo of the engine compartment, as well as the odometer to prove the actual mileage. Don’t overlook the tire wear—take a close-up shot. Ensure the photos aren’t blurry and the background isn’t cluttered. Take multiple shots at once to avoid repeated efforts. Remember, the inspection is to prevent insurance disputes, and good photos can save you time and hassle. I always remind myself to regularly check my car’s condition while driving, and I don’t take photo-taking lightly either.
