Accident history changes the story. Know the value.
Diminished value is the amount of your vehicle's pre-loss valuation that the repair process does not restore. Even after a perfect repair, an accident history follows the car — and may affect its market value. Whether compensation is available depends on the claim and applicable law.
Loss shows up in three different ways.
Understanding which one applies to your vehicle is the first step toward recovering it.
Immediate Diminished Value
The difference in your vehicle's resale value before the accident versus after it.
Inherent Diminished Value
The loss that occurs simply because your vehicle now carries an accident history — even when the repair is complete and correct.
Repair-Related Diminished Value
The further loss caused when a vehicle is not fully or properly restored. Improper repairs can leave a vehicle less safe than it was before the collision, which is one of the most important reasons to have a post-repair inspection after structural damage.
The bottom line
Diminished value is a compensable loss
Diminished value is the loss in market value that occurs when a vehicle is damaged and repaired. Our appraisal documents your vehicle's pre-loss valuation, the market's response to its accident history, and the difference between the two.
Ask about your vehicle
Numbers you can hand to anyone.
An appraisal is only as useful as the documentation behind it. Here is how we build yours.
Call your local office
Tell us what happened and what you have been offered. You speak directly with a consultant who works in your market.
Independent inspection
An appraiser inspects the vehicle, measures and photographs the damage and the repair, and records what was and was not restored.
Market value research
We value the vehicle against real market data for its make, model, mileage, and condition instead of taking a number at face value.
You receive the report
Your written appraisal gives you documented, unbiased numbers to present to your insurer, the at-fault party, or your attorney.
Next step
Speak with an independent appraiser about your claim.
Tell us what happened and what you have been offered. A consultant can explain available services and discuss which options may fit your situation.