Some losses don’t show up on a repair bill. After an accident damaged the front end of a 2024 Toyota Corolla SE, the New Jersey owner had the vehicle professionally restored. However, the crash permanently appeared on the vehicle’s CARFAX report, making it less attractive to buyers and ultimately, worth less.
Thankfully, DVAC helped this driver recover the true diminished value with a fast, data-backed appraisal. Here’s how our process turned a hidden loss into fair compensation
Why Diminished Value in New Jersey Shouldn’t Be Overlooked
New Jersey doesn’t have specific diminished value statutes, but insurance claims and case law allow vehicle owners to pursue compensation when their car loses value due to an accident.
Even with quality repairs, a car with accident history is worth less on the open market. In this case, the Corolla SE had only 12,574 miles at the time of the crash and had just one owner. Yet because the accident was documented on the vehicle’s CARFAX report (noted as “minor to moderate” damage to the front and right front), its resale value dropped significantly.
If this owner hadn’t taken action, they could’ve easily lost thousands at trade-in.
Vehicle Overview
Make/Model: 2024 Toyota Corolla SE
Location: New Jersey
Accident Type: Side impact collision (not at fault)
Mileage at Time of Accident: 4,774 miles
Repair Cost: $4,984.91
Diminished Value Status: Appraised by DVAC
Appraised Diminished Value Amount: $3,800
The Reality of Repair: A $20,000 Bill and Lingering Losses
The repair estimate for the Corolla exceeded $20,000, according to the appraisal and supporting documentation. Work included:
- Frame realignment
- Hood and bumper replacement
- Airbag system inspection
- Radar calibration
- Full front-end bodywork
Despite all this, the car now carries a stigma. That’s because platforms like CARFAX and AutoCheck permanently record accident history, regardless of repair quality. Private buyers and dealers alike use that history to negotiate lower offers.
How DVAC Delivered Results
The Corolla’s owner contacted DVAC to understand the true diminished value of their vehicle. Here’s how we helped:
- Unbiased Evaluation – We used industry-standard resources like J.D. Power, Black Book, MMR, and Kelley Blue Book to assess true market value.
- Detailed Analysis – Our report factored in mileage, trim level, condition, market supply, and more.
- Fast Turnaround – We delivered the report promptly so the owner could file their diminished value claim quickly.
- Third-Party Credibility – Our independence from insurers ensures our reports are recognized as fair and objective.
As a result, the driver received a comprehensive diminished value estimate they could submit directly to the at-fault party’s insurance company to support their claim.
Why Law Firms and Insurance Professionals Trust DVAC
For attorneys representing clients with vehicle damage claims—or insurance pros seeking clear valuations—DVAC offers:
- Expert reports that meet legal standards
- Objective, third-party documentation
- National coverage with localized market insights
- Consistent, fast turnaround times
From commuter cars like the Corolla to high-end vehicles, our appraisals hold up to scrutiny and support better settlements.
Don’t Let Your Vehicle’s Value Slip Away
This case shows how quickly a new vehicle can lose thousands in value—even after a “minor to moderate” accident. Without documentation, drivers are left footing the bill for a loss they didn’t cause.
Ready to find out how much compensation you might be missing?
Contact DVAC today for an objective, data-backed diminished value appraisal.
