You shouldn't need an insurance background to understand your own claim. Here's what matters.
What is the appraisal clause?
It's a paragraph already in most auto insurance policies. It says that if you and the insurance company disagree about what your car is worth, either side can call for an appraisal.
You pick an independent appraiser. The insurer picks one too. The two appraisers agree on a value — and if they can't, a neutral third party (called an umpire — think referee) breaks the tie.
In plain terms: you don't have to take the insurer's number. Your policy gives you a built-in way to get a second opinion that they have to honor.
What is diminished value?
A car that's been in an accident is worth less than the same car that hasn't — even after a perfect repair. Buyers see the accident on the history report and pay less. That drop is called diminished value.
If someone else caused the accident, their insurer may owe you that difference on top of the repair bill. Most people never ask for it, and insurers rarely bring it up.
In plain terms: your repaired car lost resale value because of the crash. You may be owed money for that loss.
Think your offer is too low?
Do these four things now.
- 1
Don't accept the offer yet
Signing or cashing the check can close your claim. You can take time to think.
- 2
Keep every piece of paperwork
The offer letter, the valuation report, repair estimates, photos — all of it.
- 3
Find your claim number and date of loss
They're on your claim letter or in your insurer's app. We'll need both.
- 4
Contact us for a free review
We'll look at the numbers and tell you honestly whether you have a case.
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