Cormac Hassett

Consulting automotive engineer
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Service

Accident Damage Assessments

Independent, engineering-led assessments to document vehicle damage following a road traffic collision.

Overview

An accident damage assessment provides an objective evaluation of a vehicle after a collision, documenting the nature, extent, and implications of the damage. These assessments are commonly used to support insurance claims, repair decisions, and, where required, legal or technical reviews.

Each inspection is carried out by a qualified automotive engineer and focuses on factual findings rather than assumptions. The aim is to clearly record what has been damaged, how it affects the vehicle's structural integrity and safety systems, and what repair or next steps may be appropriate.

Accident damage assessments typically include:

  • Inspection of accident-related damage to bodywork, chassis, suspension, steering, brakes, lighting, and safety systems
  • Evaluation of structural integrity and any impact on vehicle safety
  • Identification of visible and measurable damage consistent with the reported collision
  • Photographic documentation of damage and relevant vehicle details
  • Review of available vehicle data where applicable
  • Independent engineering observations and conclusions

Where required, reports may also support:

  • Insurance claim assessments
  • Repair versus write-off considerations
  • Technical or legal reviews
  • Specialist or modified vehicles

Process & deliverables

  1. Initial Instruction - The assessment is arranged following instruction from an insurer, solicitor, fleet operator, or vehicle owner. Basic incident and vehicle details are confirmed in advance.
  2. Vehicle Inspection - The vehicle is inspected in its post-accident condition. This may take place at a repair facility, storage yard, or other suitable location. The inspection focuses on accident-related damage only.
  3. Engineering Assessment - Damage is assessed from an engineering perspective, considering vehicle construction, safety systems, and repair standards. No repair work is undertaken as part of this service.
  4. Report Preparation - A written report is prepared, typically including:
    • Incident details (as provided)
    • Description of observed damage
    • Photographic evidence
    • Engineering findings and observations
    • Repair considerations or recommendations where appropriate
    Reports are structured to meet insurance and technical expectations and are suitable for onward use in claims handling or professional review.

Example scenarios

Insurance Claim Support

A private vehicle is involved in a collision and an independent assessment is requested to document the extent of damage and support an insurance claim. The resulting report provides clear evidence of accident-related damage and assists the insurer in reaching a repair or settlement decision.

Disputed Damage or Liability

Following a collision where aspects of damage are disputed, an independent engineering inspection is carried out. The assessment focuses on whether the observed damage is consistent with the reported incident, providing factual input to assist resolution.

Ready to discuss a case?

If you need an independent vehicle assessment, technical report, or support navigating an insurance claim, Cormac Hassett is available to help. With decades of hands-on engineering experience and a clear, practical approach, you can expect straightforward advice, thorough inspection, and reports you can rely on. Please get in touch to discuss your situation and determine the most suitable next step.

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