Auto Insurance Claim Evidence Checklist (Free PDF)
Tick off each item as you collect it. Stronger evidence means fewer back-and-forth requests and a clearer basis for any disagreement with the insurer.
Fillable on screen or printable · no email or sign-up · last reviewed 2026-09-29 by David Bennett
When to use it
- As soon as you open a claim, to see what you'll need.
- Before disputing a repair estimate or total-loss offer.
What the form asks for
- ☐ Police crash report or report number
- ☐ Your state's driver crash report, if one was required
- ☐ Photos of the scene, all vehicles, plates and damage
- ☐ Witness names and phone numbers
- ☐ Title and registration
- ☐ Window sticker or build sheet (trim and options)
- ☐ Maintenance and repair records
- ☐ Receipts for recent tires, brakes, upgrades or aftermarket parts
- ☐ Photos of the vehicle before the loss
- ☐ Insurer's repair estimate or total-loss valuation report
- ☐ Your own comparable vehicle listings
- ☐ Loan or lease payoff statement
- ☐ Rental and transport receipts
- ☐ Claim communication log
- ☐ Medical bills and records (if anyone was hurt)
How to fill it in
- Print it or fill it on screen and tick items as you collect them.
- Store everything in one folder (paper or digital), named by date.
- Send the insurer copies, never originals, and log what you sent and when.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need for a car insurance claim?
Typically: the police report or report number, photos of the damage and scene, the other driver's information, your policy and claim numbers, repair estimates or the valuation report, and receipts for related costs such as towing and rental.
What if I don't have a police report?
Some states let you file your own crash report when police didn't come, and some require it. Check your state's rule, and keep your own photos, notes and witness details either way.