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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.
Experiencing a vehicle accident is a distressing event that can leave lasting effects. It’s crucial to handle the aftermath with composure and a clear plan of action to safeguard yourself and others involved. Whether it’s a minor bump or a major collision, understanding the steps to take can significantly impact your recovery process. In addition […]
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Diminished value is recoverable by both a third-party who’s at fault and by your own policy’s underinsured motorist coverage. The statute of limitations is 4 years from the date of the accident. O.C.G.A. 33-4-6 and O.C.G.A 33-4-7
Georgia courts have found that the measure of damages in a third-party action is the difference between the value of the vehicle before and after the collision or other negligence or in cases where the owner repairs the vehicle, the measure is the reasonable value of labor and material used for the repairs and the value of any post-repair depreciation so long as this aggregate amount doesn’t exceed your automobile’s value. Perma Ad Ideas of AM., Inc. v. Mayville, 158 GA. App. 707 (1981).
In Georgia, there are two statutes, O.C.G.A. 33-4-6 and O.C.G.A 33-4-7 that put pressure on insurance companies to handle diminished value claims fairly. The purpose of these statutes is to facilitate the quick and fair adjustment of claims, including diminished value claims in Georgia.
Insurers must adjust claims fairly and promptly, make a reasonable effort to investigate and evaluate these claims and make a good faith effort to settle for a fair amount.
If the insurance company acts in bad faith or breaches these duties, they may be liable to pay in addition to the actual loss, a penalty of up to 50 percent of the total claim amount or $5,000, whichever is greater, plus all reasonable attorney fees.
To trigger these statutes, it’s recommended to make a written 60-day time limit demand by certified mail with a return receipt requested that includes the amount you’re willing to settle for.
The most well-known court case is State Farm Mutual Insurance Company v. Mabry, 556 S.E.2d 114 (Gs. 2001). The Georgia Supreme Court held that insurance companies have a duty to evaluate all first-party physical damage claims for diminished value in Georgia, just as they evaluate other elements of damage.
The key to receiving fair compensation for diminished value is by providing a certified diminished value appraisal report.
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.
How DVAC Helped a Georgia Driver Recover Diminished Value on a Nearly New Lincoln Corsair When you buy a new car, the last thing on your mind is its resale value after an accident. But in Georgia, where diminished value is a real financial risk, even a “minor” collision can
Diminished Value in Georgia: Hyundai Sonata Owner Recovers Loss After Major Damage Even new vehicles aren’t immune to sudden depreciation after an accident. In Georgia, understanding how diminished value affects your vehicle after repairs is key to protecting your investment. DVAC helped one Hyundai Sonata owner uncover the real post-accident
