Claim guides / Payouts and bills
Diminished value claims
Why a repaired car can be worth less, and when you can claim it.
Even after a good repair, a car with an accident history may sell for less. Diminished value is that loss in market value.
The basics
- Diminished value claims are most often made against the at-fault driver's insurer
- Whether you can claim it, and how it's calculated, depends heavily on your state and the policy
- Claims on your own policy are often excluded
If you pursue one
- Get an independent written appraisal of the value loss
- Gather the repair invoice and photos
- Submit in writing with your evidence
Educational information, not legal or insurance advice. Laws and policies vary by state; your policy controls. Road Protect is not an insurer, adjuster or law firm and takes no referral fees.