Most vehicle owners know that the moment they drive off the dealer’s lot, their brand-new wheels begin to depreciate. Your new car’s value will drop even more if it is damaged in an accident. Fortunately, you can do a few things to reduce the amount of money you lose if this happens.
If another motorist causes damage to your vehicle in an accident, you do not have to accept a settlement that just pays for repairs and overlooks automobile depreciation. In most jurisdictions, you can file a reduced value claim if you are not at fault for an accident. Diminished value claims assist you to recuperate the worth of your automobile that you wouldn’t be able to resale because of its collision history. Learn about decreased value claims, how to submit one, and how to obtain the best deal possible.
How to File a Depreciated Value Claim
If you decide to make a depreciated value claim, it’s usually easier to gather evidence and present your case within a few days of the accident. If you wait to file a claim, the value of your car may decrease even more. The following are the processes to filing a claim for diminished value:
Determine Who is to Blame
To identify who caused the accident, insurance firms look into state legislation and accident specifics. You may fasten the process by submitting a copy of the police report and any other additional proof. Take pictures, gather statements, and get the other person’s insurance information. You can also request witnesses to write statements.
That is why it is critical to notify the cops if you are involved in an accident. They will come out and speak with the persons involved in the incident and examine the area; they can tell you a lot about where the cars were impacted and where the skid marks are.
Research State Legislation
To further understand your rights regarding the lower worth of your vehicle, research the legislation in your state. To find out more, go to your state’s official website and search for “depreciated value claim [state name]” or type “depreciated value claim [state name]” into your search engine.
Review the Policies of the Insurer
You’ll submit a claim with the insurance company whose driver was at fault, so contact them to learn how they handle claims and what documents you’ll need to attach. Next, determine whether you have uninsured motorist coverage if the other driver in the collision was uninsured. If this occurs, you must make a claim with your own insurance company.
Compile Your Documentation
The next step is to determine the car’s value before the accident and assemble the necessary papers for the claim. All possible documentation may include photos taken from the accident scene, a copy of the police report, and a bill from the garage.
Find your Car’s Depreciated Value
You can accomplish this by hiring a professional appraiser to determine the lowered worth of your vehicle. Research can also be done at your local vehicle dealerships and body shops. In any case, request a signed report to back up your claim. Keep in mind that any expenses you pay for these services will be deducted from your claim reimbursement, so be sure it’s worth it.
Make a Claim
Follow the insurance company’s claim-filing instructions and respond quickly if they have any queries. This increases your chances of receiving compensation for your loss.
Await a Response
Keep in touch with the claims representative because this type of claim might take weeks or months to resolve. Every few weeks, request an update. You may need to engage a lawyer to act as an intermediary if you’re having problems talking with the insurance provider.
If you have been in a car accident, experienced 1-800-Injured car accident attorneys can assist you. The defense advisers will understand the importance of your property damage claim from a car accident and will fight relentlessly on your behalf to ensure that you receive the total amount of compensation that you are entitled to under the circumstances.
