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How to Recover Lost Vehicle Value Post-Accident: A Guide to Diminished Value Claims!

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Diminished Value Claim California

How to Recover Lost Vehicle Value Post-Accident: A Guide to Diminished Value Claims!

The simplest explanation of diminished could be- it is the difference between the current and the value before the accident. A diminished value claim allows claim allow to recover fair compensation for your loss, if the accident wasn’t your fault.

The first thing that happens naturally after a collision- is the repair of the vehicle on an urgent basis. However, the situation takes a challenging turn when your car loses value at the time of resell. Let’s not forget, any potential buyer or dealer, when comparing two cars of the same make and model, won’t choose the one with a collision history. The obvious choice would be the accident-free car. Or in case they had to pick the repaired one, they would definitely pay less for it.

Diminished value is something that shouldn’t be ignored. It is because it is the direct effect of the accident, just like any personal injury. The Diminished Value Claim California provides you with an excellent opportunity to recover for your loss. However, it is based upon where you live, who is responsible for the collision, and the specifications of your insurance policy.

How To File A Diminished Value Claim? Here’s how!

Typically, a diminished value claim is fulfilled by the at-fault driver's insurance company. When approved, you are entitled to a sum anywhere between a few hundred and thousands of dollars.

The key steps to file the claim are as follows:

Inform the faulty driver’s insurance company

The repair-related charges will be borne by the insurance company of the driver who caused the crash. So, you will be terms to them for the same.

Collect necessary documents

Do not miss out on paperwork. From the date of the accident to final submission, it is important to have documents at every step of the way.

Find your car’s diminished value

Use various diminished value calculators available across the web to determine your loss. This could be tricky and confusing at the same time. Getting a professional appraisal will be of great assistance. The appraiser will:

  • Carefully examine the car
  • Assess the difference between its pre- and post-accident value
  • Metaculously create the appraisal report containing how much value your car has lost

The report acts as the strongest piece of evidence backing your case. In case there is a claim rejection and you choose traditional litigation- the appraisal report will serve as a critical document in court.

Contact the insurance company that you are to file a third-party claim

A third-party claim is filed by those who are not directly insured by the insurance company.

Negotiate

Insurance companies are a tough nut to crack. For you, it's a rare occurrence, but for them it's a routine (and a kind of loss). So, they try everything to reject or settle for less. Therefore, it becomes necessary to have a careful understanding of the diminished value law and your rights. This helps you present yourself confidently and receive a fair amount that you deserve.

The Right Time to Submit a Diminished Value Claim

To increase your chances of getting approved, it is always advisable to meet a specific criterion for claim submission. The better the timing, the higher the chances:

  • Your vehicle was in good condition before the collision
  • You did not make any agreements or sign any documents that you are giving up on your right to file a diminished value claim for this accident
  • Your car wasn’t involved in more accidents before this one
  • Your car was damaged enough that it needed repairs
  • Your car wasn’t declared as a total loss

In addition to that, do ensure that you have filed the case within the statute of limitations in your state. Take note- every state has a different timeline, most commonly it falls anywhere between two to six years from the date of the accident.

Types of Diminished Value

Diminished value is further classified into two types, including

Inherent diminished value

This is the most common type. This simply means your car lost value because it was a part of a crash. Another car of the same make and model, but with a clean history, will be resold for more. This diminished value can also be called stigma value. It’s because an accident is often public knowledge, and potential buyers and dealers deem such a vehicle less valuable.

Repair-based diminished value

First of all, not everything is repairable. Secondly, due to low-grade repairs, your car misses out on visual appeal and performance. This also reduces its value. After all, first impression is the last impression. A car that looks bad definitely will leave a negative impression on potential buyers.

Final Words!

A car crash is already a very stressful instance- even if you weren’t at fault. Losing your vehicle, getting it repaired, only to receive the unwanted gift that it's worth less! Diminished Value Claim is here to protect your rights. Among the many discomforts the accidents cause, this is one comforting way to gain back on the financial loss for a mistake that you didn’t make.

To learn more about diminished value claims and find out where you stand- Contact ADR-Claims Today!