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Recover the True Value of Your Vehicle.
Statute of Limitations to File:
File First Party Claim:
File Third Party Claim:
Diminished Value Through Uninsured Motorist Coverage:
Small Claims Max Filing:
OUR PROVEN PROCESS
Start the process with a FREE consultation when you call us at (877) 879-0101 or fill out our Appraisal Form and we will contact you within minutes!
We analyze data to determine your vehicle’s true diminished value and deliver a quick, accurate appraisal that insurance companies can’t ignore.
We don’t stop at a report. We advise and support you through negotiations every step of the way until you receive your rightful compensation.
If your car has been declared a total loss in Colorado, you’re not alone. Many drivers find themselves facing confusing insurance valuations and settlement offers that feel far too low. Colorado has specific total loss laws that can significantly affect how much compensation you receive — and understanding them is crucial to protecting your financial […]
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Diminished value of your vehicle is recoverable in third-party cases only. You can only recover from third-party at fault insurance companies and you cannot make a claim under your own uninsured motorist insurance. All drivers must carry minimum liability insurance, and the statute of limitations is 2 years from the time of the accident. Senate Bill 23-015.
Trujillo v. Wilson, 189 P.2d 147 (Colo. 1948)
Supreme Court of Colorado
Filed: January 12th, 1948
Precedential Status: Precedential
Citations: 189 P.2d 147, 117 Colo. 430
The measure of damage is the difference between its value immediately before its damage and immediately thereafter, together with any expense of reasonable efforts to preserve or restore it.
Larson v. Long, 74 Colo. 152 (1923)
Colorado Supreme Court
Filed: October 1st, 1923
Oct. 1, 1923
No. 10,585 74 Colo. 152
Automobiles: Evidence of the depreciation in value of an automobile on account of its having been in an accident, is admissible, the depreciation being an element of damage.
Even after repairs, your car may lose resale value due to its accident history—known as diminished value. Many buyers avoid damaged vehicles or expect a discount, but you have the right to file a diminished value claim. Some insurance companies won’t inform you of your right to an independent appraisal and often minimize payouts. With accurate data and a strong claim, DVAC ensures you get the compensation you deserve.
You should pursue a diminished value claim once your vehicle is fully repaired to pre-accident condition. Experts calculate diminished value based on the nature of the damage to your vehicle and overall evidence of repairs. A thorough review of the final bill from the bodyshop, a visual inspection of the vehicle after repairs, and a review of the Carfax are a few important factors in determining diminished value.
Recovering diminished value from the at-fault insurance company can take as little as a few days. However, some claims may take weeks—and in rare cases, months. The timeline depends entirely on the insurance company’s diminished value policy. One thing remains constant: DVAC will stay involved throughout your DOV claim, offering advice and support.
If your vehicle has been totaled in an accident, how do you determine a fair settlement? The insurance company has their figure, and you have yours. DVAC helps bridge that gap by guiding you to a realistic, mutually agreeable number backed by comprehensive market research. We compile a total loss report that includes all of our findings and your vehicle’s actual cash value.
We equip each diminished value appraisal report with a vAuto market analysis, NADA Archival Valuation, and a complimentary Carfax. vAuto captures 100% of all U.S. sales data for any vehicle. Using this powerful tool, we compile an extremely accurate pre-accident value and assess diminished value based on the nature of your vehicle’s repair records. We also include a detailed photo file and the final bill from the body shop. Once everything is compiled, we email you a comprehensive 20–30 page diminished value appraisal report.
The IRS requires a professional appraisal for any vehicle worth more than $5,000 if you want to claim a tax write-off. While vehicles under $5,000 don’t need an appraisal, we still recommend getting one to help avoid a potential audit.
Insurance companies rely on appraisals to determine the fair market value of your collectible vehicle. A certified appraisal from a licensed appraiser strengthens your claim and helps ensure the insurer pays you the full compensation you deserve in the event of a collision.
The requirements can vary depending on your lender. Some institutions may ask for an independent appraisal to verify the true market value of the vehicle you plan to purchase.
What about “Certified Used Vehicles”?
Many dealerships now offer “Certified Used Vehicles” on their lots, but each one sets its own policies and standards for certification. In many cases, dealers look closely for even minor damage history to disqualify your trade-in from meeting their “certified” criteria. As a result, they may offer you less than if your vehicle had a clean title. DVAC can help you recover that lost value through a diminished value claim.
If an accident has damaged your vehicle and you’re concerned about its true value, call DVAC Diminished Value Appraisal Claims at 877-879-0101 for a FREE consultation. If you’re ready to start the process, start your appraisal now! You can also check out our blog for more case-specific information.
A Total Loss in Colorado can create uncertainty when the insurance company’s valuation does not align with real market data. This case study shows how DVAC determined an accurate value for a 2013 Toyota Sienna using a combination of trusted valuation sources and vehicle-specific data. Vehicle Overview Make/Model: 2013 Toyota
A Total Loss in Ohio can leave vehicle owners uncertain about whether their settlement reflects true market value. This case study highlights how DVAC determined an accurate valuation for a nearly new 2026 Tesla Model Y using real market data and structured appraisal methods. Vehicle Overview Make/Model: 2026 Tesla Model
A Total Loss in Florida can quickly become frustrating when the insurance company’s valuation does not reflect real market conditions. This case study highlights how DVAC determined an accurate value for a 2024 Toyota RAV4 using verified data sources and local market comps. Vehicle Overview Make/Model: 2024 Toyota RAV4 Location:
