[MRM]

Yes, most property damage only claims are being adjusted through photos these days unless the damage is too complex and hidden. The computers know what needs to be replaced by the cosmetic damage and the make/model of car. Frequently on low dollar claims they ask the insured to email phone camera pictures. The body shop gets quoted a flat rate for the repair. They accept the repair on that basis and have the opportunity for more work if more damage is uncovered. As long as the shop is on the insurance company’s pre-approved list, they’ll do it all based on photos. If not, they do the initial quote based on photos and send an adjuster out only if there is additional damage that doesn’t show on the photos.

Big brother AI photo interpretation programs are scary powerful. This is just the way insurance companies are handling claims these days. It doesn’t have anything to do with Covid. It was already the way insurance companies adjusted property damage claims.