Got my collision claim settlement after 4 months - some lessons I learned the hard way

Finally wrapped up my collision claim after a rear-end accident in January. The other driver was clearly at fault but it still took 4 months to get paid out. Sharing what I learned in case it helps anyone else going through this.

The biggest thing: document everything from day one. I took photos of the scene, got the police report number, and wrote down exactly what the adjuster said in every phone call. That paper trail saved me when their adjuster tried to lowball me by claiming my car had "pre-existing damage" - I had photos proving the specific damage was from the accident.

Also learned that you can dispute the initial settlement offer, which I didnt know was a thing. Their first offer was $8,200. After I got an independent estimate and pushed back, they came up to $11,400. Worth the extra few weeks of back and forth. Anyway, hope this helps someone. Ask me anything about the process.