Uploading documents and photos

Document Upload Guide

Proper documentation is essential for claim approval. High-quality photos and relevant documents help adjusters make faster decisions.

Accessing the Upload Section

You can upload documents during claim creation or add them later:

• During Creation: Navigate to the "Documents" step in the claim form
• After Submission: Open the claim and go to the "Documents" tab

Types of Documents to Upload

Required Documents

• Photos of Failed Components: Multiple angles showing the failure
• Customer Authorization: Signed repair authorization form
• Diagnostic Information: Trouble codes, test results

Supporting Documents (When Applicable)

• Parts pricing quotes
• Labor time guide references
• Service history records
• Technical service bulletins
• Manufacturer warranty documentation
• Previous repair invoices

Photo Requirements and Best Practices

Failed Component Photos

For the best results:

• Multiple Angles: Take 3-5 photos from different perspectives
• Clear Focus: Ensure the damage or failure is clearly visible
• Good Lighting: Use adequate lighting to show details
• Context Photos: Show the component's location in the vehicle
• Measurement Reference: Include a ruler or known object for scale

Photo Composition Tips

• Clean the component before photographing
• Use a contrasting background when possible
• Avoid glare and reflections
• Keep the camera steady (use a tripod if available)
• Take horizontal (landscape) photos for better viewing

What to Photograph

Specific examples by repair type:

• Engine Issues: Oil pan, valve covers, failed components
• Transmission: Fluid condition, pan contents, damaged parts
• Suspension: Worn bushings, broken springs, damaged struts
• Electrical: Burned wires, corroded connections, failed modules

File Format and Size Requirements

Supported File Types

• Images: JPG, JPEG, PNG (recommended for photos)
• Documents: PDF (recommended for forms and reports)
• Other: DOC, DOCX, XLS, XLSX

File Size Guidelines

• Maximum per file: 10 MB
• Recommended: 2-5 MB for photos
• Tip: Compress large files before uploading

How to Upload Files

Method 1: Drag and Drop

1. Navigate to the Documents section
2. Drag files from your computer to the upload area
3. Wait for the upload to complete
4. Add descriptions to each file

Method 2: Browse and Select

1. Click the "Upload Files" or "Browse" button
2. Select one or multiple files from your computer
3. Click "Open" to begin upload
4. Add descriptions as needed

Organizing Your Documents

File Naming Best Practices

Use clear, descriptive names:

• Good: "2024_Honda_Accord_Engine_Failed_Piston.jpg"
• Bad: "IMG_1234.jpg"

Adding Descriptions

After uploading, add descriptions that include:

• What the photo or document shows
• Relevant context or details
• Reference to specific complaints

Managing Uploaded Files

Viewing Documents

• Click any document thumbnail to view full size
• Use the navigation arrows to browse through images
• Download documents for offline review

Editing and Deleting

• Click the edit icon to change file descriptions
• Use the delete icon to remove incorrect uploads
• Re-upload if you need to replace a file

Mobile Uploads

Uploading from your mobile device:

• Use your phone's camera app to take photos
• Access OtterClaims from your mobile browser
• Select photos directly from your photo library
• Photos are automatically optimized for upload

Common Upload Issues

File Too Large

If your file exceeds the size limit:

• Compress images using photo editing software
• Reduce photo resolution (1920×1080 is usually sufficient)
• Split large PDFs into smaller files

Upload Failed

If an upload fails:

• Check your internet connection
• Verify the file type is supported
• Try uploading fewer files at once
• Clear your browser cache and try again

Tips for Faster Approval