US20220277265A1 - Systems and methods for early identification of a total loss vehicle - Google Patents
Systems and methods for early identification of a total loss vehicle Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20220277265A1 US20220277265A1 US17/498,915 US202117498915A US2022277265A1 US 20220277265 A1 US20220277265 A1 US 20220277265A1 US 202117498915 A US202117498915 A US 202117498915A US 2022277265 A1 US2022277265 A1 US 2022277265A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- vehicle
- total loss
- data
- insured
- points
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title abstract description 22
- 230000008439 repair process Effects 0.000 claims description 11
- 238000007689 inspection Methods 0.000 description 10
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 6
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 6
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 3
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000977 initiatory effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 150000003839 salts Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000002459 sustained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
- G06Q10/10—Office automation; Time management
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q40/00—Finance; Insurance; Tax strategies; Processing of corporate or income taxes
- G06Q40/08—Insurance
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to systems and methods for early identification of a likely total loss vehicle, and more particularly, to automatically determining at an early stage whether an insured vehicle is beyond repair.
- a claims adjuster When a vehicle has been involved in an incident, a claims adjuster typically inspects the vehicle in the field. The inspection, however, may not occur for several days after the accident has been reported to the insurance company.
- the adjuster determines that the cost to repair the vehicle comes close to or exceeds the cash value of the vehicle, the adjuster deems the vehicle a total loss. He then works with the vehicle owner to reach a settlement, and secures the required paper work so the insurance company will issue payment to the owner for the loss. This process is often time consuming and expensive. Furthermore, the length of time spent may decrease the customer's satisfaction with the level of service provided by the insurance company.
- the insurance company does not know the extent of damage to the vehicle until an adjuster can inspect the vehicle, and the adjuster may be unable to do so immediately.
- the insurance company Upon learning that a vehicle has been damaged or involved in an accident, the insurance company normally assigns the vehicle to a repair shop or to an adjuster that will inspect the vehicle at a location agreed to by the insured. The inspection may occur days or weeks after the vehicle is in the repair shop or storage lot.
- this conventional procedure may cause the insurance company to incur storage and other operation costs, such as the cost to transport the vehicle.
- a method for identifying a likely total loss vehicle. The method comprises: receiving data for criteria that describe the condition of a vehicle; analyzing the data using a data processor to determine whether the data meets a threshold of likelihood of total loss; and generating a notification if the data meets the threshold.
- a system for identifying a likely total loss vehicle.
- the system comprises: a network; a server coupled to the network that receives data for criteria that describe the condition of a vehicle; and a decision engine running on the server to analyze the data received for the criteria to determine whether the data meets a threshold of likelihood of total loss, and to generate a notification if the data meets the threshold.
- FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of steps taken, consistent with the invention, to determine whether a vehicle is a total loss
- FIG. 2 is a flow diagram of steps taken, consistent with the invention, to determine whether a vehicle is a total loss using an update mode
- FIG. 3 is a diagram of an exemplary system to implement the steps described in FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- Automating the collection of data for a loss report can provide an increased amount of data to describe the condition of a vehicle, thereby allowing an automated determination of whether the vehicle is likely a total loss.
- a loss report describes the extent of the damage to and identifying characteristics of the vehicle.
- the questions asked during the collection of data can be detailed and include follow up questions for more specific information. Increasing the number and specificity of the questions may improve the accuracy of the loss report and reduce the time needed to complete the loss report.
- FIG. 1 is a flow diagram 100 of steps to determine whether a vehicle is a total loss.
- the processing and determination described below may occur when an insurance company takes an initial loss report from the insured or other appropriate person. Although the following description sets forth an entirely automated system, one or more of the stages may take place completely or partially manually.
- the following example describes processing a vehicle insured by the company taking the loss report, it need not be so limited. For example, the vehicle may be insured by another insurance company or might not be insured.
- a customer service representative gathers identification information about the insured, such as the insured's name and policy number, and may verify identification information describing the damaged vehicle. Step 110 . Certain information gathered for the loss report, such as the make, model, and year of the vehicle can be retrieved from a database storing the policy data. That information can be verified and updated when the customer service representative interacts with the insured. Any information not available can be requested from the insured.
- the customer service representative gathers information concerning the damage to an insured vehicle to complete a loss report.
- the information can come from the insured over the telephone, via the Internet or in person, or by any means.
- an insured may directly input data describing the extent of damage to a vehicle over the Internet.
- an insured may bypass interacting with a customer service representative to submit the data for a loss report.
- Data describing the condition of the vehicle may include whether the vehicle rolled over, whether the vehicle had multiple impact points, etc.
- Data describing characteristics of the vehicle may include whether the vehicle is over a certain age or has been driven over a certain number of miles.
- the system may determine that it is necessary to ask a follow-up question based on one or more answers already received. The decision engine can thus prompt more detailed questions only when necessary.
- rollover questions are enabled based on loss facts. If the loss report noted that the doors are damaged, then answering “no” to a question such as “Do all doors open freely?” enables the question “Was rescue equipment used to free occupants from the vehicle?” As another example, if the front end of a vehicle has sustained damage to the hood, grille and front bumper, then a question asking “Were there any fluids leaking?” is enabled. In some implementations consistent with the present invention, an answer may be required before the process continues, but all embodiments may not require answers in all situations.
- a graphical user interface may allow a customer service representative to use a pointing device to click on an area of a graphic of a vehicle to select a damaged area. For example, by clicking on a door on the graphic of the vehicle may select the door as a damaged area.
- a decision engine uses the information to determine whether the vehicle is likely a total loss by applying a set of rules (described in greater detail below).
- the decision engine automatically determines whether to make a total loss assignment for the vehicle. If so, a total loss assignment is made, and a notification is automatically generated and transmitted to appropriate persons, such as total loss experts.
- the total loss experts may then arrange to have the vehicle moved to an inspection station where an adjuster may then inspect the vehicle, or take some other action.
- Methods of inspection may include assigning the vehicle to a field location, assigning the vehicle to a drive-in location if the vehicle is determined drivable, or assigning the vehicle to a repair shop based on interaction with the customer and the customer's choice of a repair shop.
- FIG. 2 is a flow diagram 200 of steps taken, consistent with the invention, to determine whether a vehicle is a total loss using an update mode.
- a customer service representative can select a “check for total loss” button on a user interface to initiate the decision-engine rules. This functionality allows a customer service representative to update the analysis when more information is gathered subsequent to the initial report. Step 205 .
- the form of such initiation is not important to the invention.
- the decision engine carries out a set of rules tied to the data in the loss report to determine the likelihood of a total loss of the vehicle. Step 210 .
- the operation of the decision engine is well within the level of ordinary skill given the rules described below.
- a weighted value is assigned to the criteria. For example, if the vehicle has been driven over 100,000 miles, then a weight of five is assigned to the criteria.
- the following list represents exemplary weight values that may be assigned to certain criteria used when the rules execute (as discussed in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2 ):
- Tail light indicator damaged 5 points each
- weights are exemplary, and one of skill in the art will recognize that more specific calculations may be made. For example, whether the insured vehicle is more than five years old may be replaced with a more specific calculation, for example calculating a weight using the current date of the loss report and the model year of the vehicle and assigning a point value based on the specific age of the vehicle. For example, if the vehicle is five years old, then five points may be assigned to the criteria. If the vehicle is six years old, then ten points may be assigned to the criteria.
- the values of the weights may also vary based on the make, model, or class of a vehicle. For example, a different set of weights may be used depending on whether the insured vehicle is a sport utility vehicle, passenger vehicle, or truck. Further, it may be more desirable to exclude more expensive luxury or exotic vehicles from automated processing due to their high value, and instead require inspection by an adjuster. Additionally, it may be desirable to exclude motorcycles and catastrophic claims from automated processing, for example. Other examples of vehicles that might be excluded include campers, motor homes, and rented or borrowed vehicles.
- the weights that are used can be selected using many different methods. One is to use standard criteria and to apply weights based on experience gained from evaluating reports. Another method is to gather data from repair shops on costs of repair and form weights from such data. Still other methods include having an expert system that revises the weights (i.e., learns) based on determinations made by actual claims adjusters. The method used to determine the values assigned to the weights is not critical to all aspects of this invention.
- the decision engine rules apply the weights to the data and calculate the sum of all weighted criteria to determine whether a vehicle is likely a total loss based on a point threshold. For example, if the total of all weighted criteria is equal to or greater than twenty-five, then the vehicle is deemed a probable total loss.
- Step 215 Possible results include (1) the vehicle is likely a total loss; (2) the vehicle is likely not a total loss, (3) a determination could not be made; or (4) the decision engine could not run the rules, preferably with an explanation for any error.
- the form of this notification which is not critical to this invention, can be by an e-mail message, a printed message, or any other acceptable form of communication.
- Step 220 Whether the decision engine continues processing depends on whether the vehicle has been determined a likely total loss.
- the claims handler may be given the option to make a total loss assignment of the vehicle.
- the claims handler may decide whether to make a total loss assignment.
- Step 225 a determination is made whether the vehicle has previously been assigned to a method of inspection.
- Step 230 If so, the decision engine generates and transmits to the claims handler a notification of the preexisting assignment.
- Step 240 Otherwise, the decision engine will automatically make the assignment by generating a notification and transmitting it to appropriate persons, such as total loss experts.
- Step 235 Whether the decision engine continues processing depends on whether the vehicle has been determined a likely total loss.
- the decision engine determines whether the vehicle has previously been assigned to a method of inspection. Step 245 . If so, the decision engine generates and transmits to the claims handler a notification of the preexisting assignment. Step 255 . If not, the decision engine can then notify the customer representative to make an assignment for a method of inspection, such as to a field location, drive-in location, or repair shop. Step 250 .
- the decision engine may process or update a loss report automatically. For example, in a web-based system, selecting, generating, and transmitting an assignment for a particular method of inspection may occur automatically and without intervention by a claims handler when a vehicle is not determined a likely total loss.
- the claims handler may then communicate the result to the insured.
- the insured may receive an automatic notification of the result. In this way, the insured learns quickly whether a vehicle is deemed a probable total loss, thereby increasing customer satisfaction.
- the insurance company saves unnecessary storage or repair costs, and saves the expense of sending a claims adjuster to assess the damage.
- the insurance company saves costs associated with furnishing the insured with a rental vehicle if the insured's policy includes rental coverage. And if the insured's policy does not include rental coverage, then the insured saves costs associated with renting a vehicle.
- FIG. 3 is a diagram of an exemplary system 300 , consistent with the invention, to implement the steps described above.
- System 300 includes a server 305 , with a CPU 320 and a memory 330 connected to a network 360 .
- Software in memory 330 preferably implements a program for determining whether a vehicle is likely a total loss.
- Network 360 provides communications between the various components in system 300 , such as user terminals 370 - 390 .
- Network 360 may be a shared, public, or private network and encompass a wide or local area.
- Terminals 370 - 390 allow a user to send and/or receive information to/from server 305 .
- Terminals 370 - 390 may be any type of appropriate device for communicating with server 305 over network 360 .
- terminal 370 may be a PDA running a program for communicating with server 305
- terminal 380 may be a desktop computer running a web browser for communicating with server 305 via the Internet.
- terminal 390 may be a standard landline telephone or wireless phone.
- An insured customer may access server 305 via network 360 or operate a web browser or software running on terminal 380 . Data may be sent over network 360 to and from server 305 to terminal 380 during the processing of the loss report. Also, as explained above, an insured customer at terminal 390 operating as a telephone may contact a customer service representative at terminal 350 . The customer service representative may make selections using software running on terminal 350 , and may send data to and from server 305 .
Abstract
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/174,044, filed Jul. 16, 2008, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/014,808, filed Dec. 20, 2004, which claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/540,555, filed Feb. 8, 2004. Each of these application is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.
- The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for early identification of a likely total loss vehicle, and more particularly, to automatically determining at an early stage whether an insured vehicle is beyond repair.
- When a vehicle has been involved in an incident, a claims adjuster typically inspects the vehicle in the field. The inspection, however, may not occur for several days after the accident has been reported to the insurance company.
- If the adjuster determines that the cost to repair the vehicle comes close to or exceeds the cash value of the vehicle, the adjuster deems the vehicle a total loss. He then works with the vehicle owner to reach a settlement, and secures the required paper work so the insurance company will issue payment to the owner for the loss. This process is often time consuming and expensive. Furthermore, the length of time spent may decrease the customer's satisfaction with the level of service provided by the insurance company.
- One reason for the length of time spent in this process is that the insurance company does not know the extent of damage to the vehicle until an adjuster can inspect the vehicle, and the adjuster may be unable to do so immediately. Upon learning that a vehicle has been damaged or involved in an accident, the insurance company normally assigns the vehicle to a repair shop or to an adjuster that will inspect the vehicle at a location agreed to by the insured. The inspection may occur days or weeks after the vehicle is in the repair shop or storage lot. In addition, this conventional procedure may cause the insurance company to incur storage and other operation costs, such as the cost to transport the vehicle.
- Consistent with the present invention, a method is provided for identifying a likely total loss vehicle. The method comprises: receiving data for criteria that describe the condition of a vehicle; analyzing the data using a data processor to determine whether the data meets a threshold of likelihood of total loss; and generating a notification if the data meets the threshold.
- Also consistent with the present invention, a system is provided for identifying a likely total loss vehicle. The system comprises: a network; a server coupled to the network that receives data for criteria that describe the condition of a vehicle; and a decision engine running on the server to analyze the data received for the criteria to determine whether the data meets a threshold of likelihood of total loss, and to generate a notification if the data meets the threshold.
- Both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and do not restrict the scope of the invention. Embodiments consistent with the invention may include features in addition to or different from those set forth in the following description.
- The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the invention and, together with the description, explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings:
-
FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of steps taken, consistent with the invention, to determine whether a vehicle is a total loss; -
FIG. 2 is a flow diagram of steps taken, consistent with the invention, to determine whether a vehicle is a total loss using an update mode; and -
FIG. 3 is a diagram of an exemplary system to implement the steps described inFIGS. 1 and 2 . - Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments consistent with the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers in different drawings refer to the same or like parts.
- Automating the collection of data for a loss report can provide an increased amount of data to describe the condition of a vehicle, thereby allowing an automated determination of whether the vehicle is likely a total loss. A loss report describes the extent of the damage to and identifying characteristics of the vehicle. The questions asked during the collection of data can be detailed and include follow up questions for more specific information. Increasing the number and specificity of the questions may improve the accuracy of the loss report and reduce the time needed to complete the loss report.
-
FIG. 1 is a flow diagram 100 of steps to determine whether a vehicle is a total loss. The processing and determination described below may occur when an insurance company takes an initial loss report from the insured or other appropriate person. Although the following description sets forth an entirely automated system, one or more of the stages may take place completely or partially manually. Furthermore, although the following example describes processing a vehicle insured by the company taking the loss report, it need not be so limited. For example, the vehicle may be insured by another insurance company or might not be insured. - First, a customer service representative gathers identification information about the insured, such as the insured's name and policy number, and may verify identification information describing the damaged vehicle.
Step 110. Certain information gathered for the loss report, such as the make, model, and year of the vehicle can be retrieved from a database storing the policy data. That information can be verified and updated when the customer service representative interacts with the insured. Any information not available can be requested from the insured. - Next, the customer service representative gathers information concerning the damage to an insured vehicle to complete a loss report.
Step 120. The information can come from the insured over the telephone, via the Internet or in person, or by any means. In a web-based system, an insured may directly input data describing the extent of damage to a vehicle over the Internet. In such an embodiment, an insured may bypass interacting with a customer service representative to submit the data for a loss report. Data describing the condition of the vehicle may include whether the vehicle rolled over, whether the vehicle had multiple impact points, etc. Data describing characteristics of the vehicle may include whether the vehicle is over a certain age or has been driven over a certain number of miles. - The automated nature of this loss report processing reduces the chance a customer service representative will ask unnecessary questions. On the other hand, the system may determine that it is necessary to ask a follow-up question based on one or more answers already received. The decision engine can thus prompt more detailed questions only when necessary.
- For example, rollover questions are enabled based on loss facts. If the loss report noted that the doors are damaged, then answering “no” to a question such as “Do all doors open freely?” enables the question “Was rescue equipment used to free occupants from the vehicle?” As another example, if the front end of a vehicle has sustained damage to the hood, grille and front bumper, then a question asking “Were there any fluids leaking?” is enabled. In some implementations consistent with the present invention, an answer may be required before the process continues, but all embodiments may not require answers in all situations.
- During the information collection process, a graphical user interface may allow a customer service representative to use a pointing device to click on an area of a graphic of a vehicle to select a damaged area. For example, by clicking on a door on the graphic of the vehicle may select the door as a damaged area.
- Next, a decision engine (described in greater detail below) uses the information to determine whether the vehicle is likely a total loss by applying a set of rules (described in greater detail below).
Step 130. The decision engine automatically determines whether to make a total loss assignment for the vehicle. If so, a total loss assignment is made, and a notification is automatically generated and transmitted to appropriate persons, such as total loss experts.Step 140. The total loss experts may then arrange to have the vehicle moved to an inspection station where an adjuster may then inspect the vehicle, or take some other action. - If the decision engine does not determine that the vehicle is likely a total loss, then the customer service representative assigns the vehicle to a particular method of inspection.
Step 150. Methods of inspection may include assigning the vehicle to a field location, assigning the vehicle to a drive-in location if the vehicle is determined drivable, or assigning the vehicle to a repair shop based on interaction with the customer and the customer's choice of a repair shop. -
FIG. 2 is a flow diagram 200 of steps taken, consistent with the invention, to determine whether a vehicle is a total loss using an update mode. After completion of a loss report, or after having entered a loss report, a customer service representative can select a “check for total loss” button on a user interface to initiate the decision-engine rules. This functionality allows a customer service representative to update the analysis when more information is gathered subsequent to the initial report.Step 205. The form of such initiation is not important to the invention. - Next, the decision engine carries out a set of rules tied to the data in the loss report to determine the likelihood of a total loss of the vehicle.
Step 210. The operation of the decision engine is well within the level of ordinary skill given the rules described below. In a preferred embodiment, if certain criteria are satisfied, then a weighted value is assigned to the criteria. For example, if the vehicle has been driven over 100,000 miles, then a weight of five is assigned to the criteria. The following list represents exemplary weight values that may be assigned to certain criteria used when the rules execute (as discussed in connection withFIGS. 1 and 2 ): - Vehicle Characteristics:
- Vehicle >5 years old=10 points
- Mileage of vehicle >100,000 miles=5 points
- Vehicle Condition:
- Vehicle not drivable=9 points
- Tail light indicator damaged=5 points each
- Multiple impact points=6 points
- Windshield or cowl damage=12 points
- Fluids leaking from vehicle=6 points
- Roof of vehicle buckled=6 points
- Rollover loss type=15 points
- Airbags deployed=7 points
- Rear glass damaged=12 points
- All over side of vehicle damage=8 points
- Seats/dash damaged=10 points
- Occupant removal=14 points
- Frame damaged=2 points
- Death (insured vehicle)=5 points
- Fire and Flood Losses:
- Fire damage=10 points
- Complete interior burned=15 points
- Complete exterior burned=15 points
- Complete engine burned=15 points
- Flood damage=10 points
- Water reached seats=8 points
- Water reached dash=15 points
- Engine submerged=15 points
- Salt water=10 points
- These weights are exemplary, and one of skill in the art will recognize that more specific calculations may be made. For example, whether the insured vehicle is more than five years old may be replaced with a more specific calculation, for example calculating a weight using the current date of the loss report and the model year of the vehicle and assigning a point value based on the specific age of the vehicle. For example, if the vehicle is five years old, then five points may be assigned to the criteria. If the vehicle is six years old, then ten points may be assigned to the criteria.
- The values of the weights may also vary based on the make, model, or class of a vehicle. For example, a different set of weights may be used depending on whether the insured vehicle is a sport utility vehicle, passenger vehicle, or truck. Further, it may be more desirable to exclude more expensive luxury or exotic vehicles from automated processing due to their high value, and instead require inspection by an adjuster. Additionally, it may be desirable to exclude motorcycles and catastrophic claims from automated processing, for example. Other examples of vehicles that might be excluded include campers, motor homes, and rented or borrowed vehicles.
- It may be desirable to also exclude from automated processing certain types of losses, such as losses due to total or partial theft, vandalism, or losses involving glass only. For example, if a loss only involves glass damage, then it may be excluded from further processing. In addition, automated processing may also exclude certain losses if the insured does not have coverage for the loss. For example, if an insured does not have collision coverage or does not have comprehensive coverage, then it may not be necessary to proceed with the additional steps in the process.
- For vehicles and claims that are not excluded, the weights that are used can be selected using many different methods. One is to use standard criteria and to apply weights based on experience gained from evaluating reports. Another method is to gather data from repair shops on costs of repair and form weights from such data. Still other methods include having an expert system that revises the weights (i.e., learns) based on determinations made by actual claims adjusters. The method used to determine the values assigned to the weights is not critical to all aspects of this invention.
- The decision engine rules apply the weights to the data and calculate the sum of all weighted criteria to determine whether a vehicle is likely a total loss based on a point threshold. For example, if the total of all weighted criteria is equal to or greater than twenty-five, then the vehicle is deemed a probable total loss.
- After the decision engine finishes the determination, it displays a message on a user interface indicating the result.
Step 215. Possible results include (1) the vehicle is likely a total loss; (2) the vehicle is likely not a total loss, (3) a determination could not be made; or (4) the decision engine could not run the rules, preferably with an explanation for any error. The form of this notification, which is not critical to this invention, can be by an e-mail message, a printed message, or any other acceptable form of communication. - Whether the decision engine continues processing depends on whether the vehicle has been determined a likely total loss.
Step 220. If so, upon receiving a notification that the vehicle is a likely total loss, the claims handler may be given the option to make a total loss assignment of the vehicle. The claims handler may decide whether to make a total loss assignment.Step 225. If so, a determination is made whether the vehicle has previously been assigned to a method of inspection.Step 230. If so, the decision engine generates and transmits to the claims handler a notification of the preexisting assignment.Step 240. Otherwise, the decision engine will automatically make the assignment by generating a notification and transmitting it to appropriate persons, such as total loss experts.Step 235. - If the decision engine determines that the vehicle is likely not a total loss or cannot make the determination (step 220), the decision engine determines whether the vehicle has previously been assigned to a method of inspection.
Step 245. If so, the decision engine generates and transmits to the claims handler a notification of the preexisting assignment.Step 255. If not, the decision engine can then notify the customer representative to make an assignment for a method of inspection, such as to a field location, drive-in location, or repair shop.Step 250. - One of skill in the art will recognize that in various embodiments the decision engine may process or update a loss report automatically. For example, in a web-based system, selecting, generating, and transmitting an assignment for a particular method of inspection may occur automatically and without intervention by a claims handler when a vehicle is not determined a likely total loss.
- Upon completion of an initial loss report (as discussed in connection with
FIG. 1 ) or after updated processing (as discussed in connection withFIG. 2 ), the claims handler may then communicate the result to the insured. Alternatively, in a web-based system, the insured may receive an automatic notification of the result. In this way, the insured learns quickly whether a vehicle is deemed a probable total loss, thereby increasing customer satisfaction. - Additionally, due to the nature of the questions asked and the quantity of available questions, it is also possible to determine with greater accuracy whether a vehicle is a total loss. As a result, the insurance company saves unnecessary storage or repair costs, and saves the expense of sending a claims adjuster to assess the damage. In particular, the insurance company saves costs associated with furnishing the insured with a rental vehicle if the insured's policy includes rental coverage. And if the insured's policy does not include rental coverage, then the insured saves costs associated with renting a vehicle.
-
FIG. 3 is a diagram of anexemplary system 300, consistent with the invention, to implement the steps described above.System 300 includes aserver 305, with aCPU 320 and amemory 330 connected to anetwork 360. Software inmemory 330 preferably implements a program for determining whether a vehicle is likely a total loss.Network 360 provides communications between the various components insystem 300, such as user terminals 370-390.Network 360 may be a shared, public, or private network and encompass a wide or local area. - Terminals 370-390 allow a user to send and/or receive information to/from
server 305. Terminals 370-390 may be any type of appropriate device for communicating withserver 305 overnetwork 360. For example, terminal 370 may be a PDA running a program for communicating withserver 305, whileterminal 380 may be a desktop computer running a web browser for communicating withserver 305 via the Internet. Optionally, terminal 390 may be a standard landline telephone or wireless phone. - An insured customer may access
server 305 vianetwork 360 or operate a web browser or software running onterminal 380. Data may be sent overnetwork 360 to and fromserver 305 to terminal 380 during the processing of the loss report. Also, as explained above, an insured customer atterminal 390 operating as a telephone may contact a customer service representative atterminal 350. The customer service representative may make selections using software running onterminal 350, and may send data to and fromserver 305. - The foregoing descriptions have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not exhaustive and do not limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practicing the invention. For example, the described implementation includes software but the present invention may be implemented as a combination of hardware and software or in hardware alone. Additionally, although aspects of the present invention are described as being stored in memory, one skilled in the art will appreciate that these aspects can also be stored on other types of computer-readable media, such as secondary storage devices, like hard disks, floppy disks, or CD-ROM; a carrier wave from the Internet or other propagation medium; or other forms of RAM or ROM.
- Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. The specification and examples should be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims.
Claims (1)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US17/498,915 US20220277265A1 (en) | 2004-02-02 | 2021-10-12 | Systems and methods for early identification of a total loss vehicle |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US54055504P | 2004-02-02 | 2004-02-02 | |
US11/014,808 US8364505B1 (en) | 2004-02-02 | 2004-12-20 | Systems and methods for early identification of a total loss vehicle |
US12/174,044 US11144996B1 (en) | 2004-02-02 | 2008-07-16 | Systems and methods for early identification of a total loss vehicle |
US17/498,915 US20220277265A1 (en) | 2004-02-02 | 2021-10-12 | Systems and methods for early identification of a total loss vehicle |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/174,044 Continuation US11144996B1 (en) | 2004-02-02 | 2008-07-16 | Systems and methods for early identification of a total loss vehicle |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20220277265A1 true US20220277265A1 (en) | 2022-09-01 |
Family
ID=47562353
Family Applications (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/014,808 Active 2030-08-31 US8364505B1 (en) | 2004-02-02 | 2004-12-20 | Systems and methods for early identification of a total loss vehicle |
US12/174,044 Active 2027-09-16 US11144996B1 (en) | 2004-02-02 | 2008-07-16 | Systems and methods for early identification of a total loss vehicle |
US17/498,915 Pending US20220277265A1 (en) | 2004-02-02 | 2021-10-12 | Systems and methods for early identification of a total loss vehicle |
Family Applications Before (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/014,808 Active 2030-08-31 US8364505B1 (en) | 2004-02-02 | 2004-12-20 | Systems and methods for early identification of a total loss vehicle |
US12/174,044 Active 2027-09-16 US11144996B1 (en) | 2004-02-02 | 2008-07-16 | Systems and methods for early identification of a total loss vehicle |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (3) | US8364505B1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (18)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20080046261A1 (en) * | 2006-08-17 | 2008-02-21 | Scene Genesis, Inc. | Direct repair program management systems and methods thereof |
US8788297B2 (en) | 2011-08-10 | 2014-07-22 | Hartford Fire Insurance Company | Systems and methods for automobile total loss calculations |
US10963966B1 (en) | 2013-09-27 | 2021-03-30 | Allstate Insurance Company | Electronic exchange of insurance information |
US8799034B1 (en) | 2013-03-08 | 2014-08-05 | Allstate University Company | Automated accident detection, fault attribution, and claims processing |
CN103310223A (en) * | 2013-03-13 | 2013-09-18 | 四川天翼网络服务有限公司 | Vehicle loss assessment system based on image recognition and method thereof |
US20140278572A1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-09-18 | State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company | System and method for routing a vehicle damaged in a crash |
US9508200B1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2016-11-29 | State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company | System and method for using a specialty vehicle data identifier to facilitate treatment of a vehicle damaged in a crash |
US9996885B1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2018-06-12 | State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company | System and method for facilitating vehicle insurance services |
US9443270B1 (en) | 2013-09-17 | 2016-09-13 | Allstate Insurance Company | Obtaining insurance information in response to optical input |
US10832328B1 (en) | 2014-12-11 | 2020-11-10 | State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company | Smart notepad for improved workflow efficiency for insurance claim associates |
US10896469B1 (en) | 2014-12-11 | 2021-01-19 | State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company | Automated caller identification for improved workflow efficiency for insurance claim associates |
US10832329B1 (en) * | 2014-12-11 | 2020-11-10 | State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company | Search tool for improved workflow efficiency for insurance claim associates |
US10713717B1 (en) | 2015-01-22 | 2020-07-14 | Allstate Insurance Company | Total loss evaluation and handling system and method |
US20220012780A1 (en) | 2017-04-05 | 2022-01-13 | State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company | Systems and methods for estimating vehicle value via blockchain |
US10937103B1 (en) | 2017-04-21 | 2021-03-02 | Allstate Insurance Company | Machine learning based accident assessment |
US11880885B2 (en) * | 2018-08-28 | 2024-01-23 | Peter T. Frodigh | Coverage definition system and method |
US20220017032A1 (en) * | 2020-07-14 | 2022-01-20 | Cambridge Mobile Telematics Inc. | Methods and systems of predicting total loss events |
RU202174U1 (en) * | 2020-09-29 | 2021-02-05 | Сергей Александрович Бирюков | DEVICE FOR CALCULATING THE INDICATOR OF LOSSES OF PSTOR AND PERSONAL COMPOSITION TAKING INTO ACCOUNT MEASURES TO ENSURE THE LIFE OF VVO |
Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5950169A (en) * | 1993-05-19 | 1999-09-07 | Ccc Information Services, Inc. | System and method for managing insurance claim processing |
US6052631A (en) * | 1997-08-08 | 2000-04-18 | Management Systems Data Service, Inc. ("Msds, Inc.") | Method and system for facilitating vehicle inspection to detect previous damage and repairs |
US20020035488A1 (en) * | 2000-04-03 | 2002-03-21 | Anthony Aquila | System and method of administering, tracking and managing of claims processing |
US20020055861A1 (en) * | 2000-11-08 | 2002-05-09 | King Daniel A. | Claiming system and method |
US20120109660A1 (en) * | 2007-10-23 | 2012-05-03 | Gann Xu | Integrated process and system for cosmetic vehicle repairs |
Family Cites Families (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE69232112T2 (en) * | 1991-11-12 | 2002-03-14 | Fujitsu Ltd | Speech synthesis device |
US5680328A (en) * | 1995-05-22 | 1997-10-21 | Eaton Corporation | Computer assisted driver vehicle inspection reporting system |
US20010005217A1 (en) * | 1998-06-01 | 2001-06-28 | Hamilton Jeffrey Allen | Incident recording information transfer device |
US20020103622A1 (en) * | 2000-07-17 | 2002-08-01 | Burge John R. | Decision-aid system based on wirelessly-transmitted vehicle crash sensor information |
US6788016B2 (en) * | 2002-05-31 | 2004-09-07 | Valeo Electrical Systems, Inc. | Motor speed-based anti-pinch control apparatus and method with endzone ramp detection and compensation |
US20050065813A1 (en) | 2003-03-11 | 2005-03-24 | Mishelevich David J. | Online medical evaluation system |
US7895064B2 (en) | 2003-09-02 | 2011-02-22 | Computer Sciences Corporation | Graphical input display in an insurance processing system |
US8095394B2 (en) | 2006-05-18 | 2012-01-10 | Progressive Casualty Insurance Company | Rich claim reporting system |
-
2004
- 2004-12-20 US US11/014,808 patent/US8364505B1/en active Active
-
2008
- 2008-07-16 US US12/174,044 patent/US11144996B1/en active Active
-
2021
- 2021-10-12 US US17/498,915 patent/US20220277265A1/en active Pending
Patent Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5950169A (en) * | 1993-05-19 | 1999-09-07 | Ccc Information Services, Inc. | System and method for managing insurance claim processing |
US6052631A (en) * | 1997-08-08 | 2000-04-18 | Management Systems Data Service, Inc. ("Msds, Inc.") | Method and system for facilitating vehicle inspection to detect previous damage and repairs |
US20020035488A1 (en) * | 2000-04-03 | 2002-03-21 | Anthony Aquila | System and method of administering, tracking and managing of claims processing |
US20020055861A1 (en) * | 2000-11-08 | 2002-05-09 | King Daniel A. | Claiming system and method |
US20120109660A1 (en) * | 2007-10-23 | 2012-05-03 | Gann Xu | Integrated process and system for cosmetic vehicle repairs |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US8364505B1 (en) | 2013-01-29 |
US11144996B1 (en) | 2021-10-12 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20220277265A1 (en) | Systems and methods for early identification of a total loss vehicle | |
US9111264B2 (en) | System and method for pre-evaluation vehicle diagnostic and repair cost estimation | |
AU2017315462B2 (en) | Automatic hail damage detection and repair | |
US11367144B2 (en) | Agent-facilitated claims damage estimation | |
US10600123B1 (en) | Systems and methods for automobile accident claims initiation | |
US20170352104A1 (en) | Automatic Hail Damage Detection And Repair | |
US11348175B1 (en) | Total loss evaluation and handling system and method | |
US20150324924A1 (en) | Streamlined Claims Processing | |
US20100030615A1 (en) | Computer-implemented method and system for collecting and communicating inspection information for a mechanism | |
US20130173453A1 (en) | System and Method for Evaluating Loans and Collections Based Upon Vehicle History | |
US20110270707A1 (en) | Apparatus and methods for efficient delivery of auction item information | |
US11455691B2 (en) | Processing insured items holistically with mobile damage assessment and claims processing | |
US20050108065A1 (en) | Method and system of estimating vehicle damage | |
US20070136163A1 (en) | Systems and methods for providing financing information based on a vehicle identification number | |
CN109885038A (en) | A kind of vehicle trouble code maintenance guidance method and relevant device | |
US20190392401A1 (en) | Mobile vehicle diagnosis, and repair referral, system and services | |
US20240095843A1 (en) | Predictive claims platform for managing repairs | |
US20230020642A1 (en) | Processing insured items holistically with mobile damage assessment and claims processing | |
WO2012075055A2 (en) | System and method for obtaining competitive pricing for vehicle services | |
US20230073115A1 (en) | Estimating a Cost to Repair a Damaged Item without Physically Inspecting the Item | |
US20230073188A1 (en) | Automatic Damage Detection Database | |
US20220036463A1 (en) | User devices in claims damage estimation | |
US20210133889A1 (en) | Method for improving the environment by providing incentives for purchase, lease, re-lease, rental, or subscription of environmentally friendly zero emission, low emission and battery electric vehicles | |
US20230070094A1 (en) | Streamlined Claims Processing with Non-Negotiable Payment for Repair and Repair Cost Feedback Loop | |
CN117495433A (en) | Data prediction method and device for energy station, computer equipment and storage medium |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: DOCKETED NEW CASE - READY FOR EXAMINATION |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: FINAL REJECTION MAILED |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: ALLSTATE INSURANCE COMPANY, ILLINOIS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:KANE, MICHAEL SINCLAIR;GALANT, ALAN D.;WOIROL, ANGELA K.;SIGNING DATES FROM 20050217 TO 20050218;REEL/FRAME:064027/0286 |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: DOCKETED NEW CASE - READY FOR EXAMINATION |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED |