If you’ve been in a car accident in Atlanta, you’re likely focused on covering repair costs and getting your vehicle back on the road. But even after repairs are complete, your car’s trade-in or resale value may still be lower due to its accident history. This is the case, not just in Atlanta, but in other US states as well.
This loss in value is known as diminished value. An Atlanta diminished value lawyer can help you seek fair compensation for it.
So, what exactly does a diminished value lawyer do to help clients recover this overlooked loss? Here is an overview of their key roles and services.
Educating Clients on Their Rights
Many accident victims are simply unaware that diminished value even exists. A knowledgeable lawyer first provides education on diminished value, how it impacts car values, and the legal grounds for pursuing rightful compensation from insurers. Simply having the facts empowers clients to protect their interests.
Investigating the Accident’s Severity
Not all accidents cause diminished value. Minor fender benders likely won’t affect the car’s value. More severe collisions involving structural or mechanical damage are required. The lawyer thoroughly reviews police reports, repair records, and inspection photos to build a case that the accident did indeed compromise the vehicle’s worth.
Calculating the Loss Amount
Specialized auto appraisal methods are used to quantify post-repair lost value accurately. The lawyer either engages expert appraisers or performs detailed valuations comparing pre- and post-accident values. Concrete numbers substantiate claims.
Filing a Demand with the Insurer
The attorney submits a formal demand letter to the at-fault driver’s insurance company once supporting documentation is gathered on liability, repairs, and the diminished amount. This professionally asserts the victim’s right to fair compensation for all accident-related losses.
Negotiating an Equitable Settlement
Insurers only voluntarily pay diminished value claims when a lawyer is involved. The lawyer aggressively negotiates with adjusters on the client’s behalf to secure reasonable compensation. Their knowledge of claim strengths and weaknesses drives favorable settlements.
Taking Legal Action If Needed
If an insurer is unwilling to settle fairly, the attorney advises on options like mediation, arbitration, or lawsuit filing. They handle all aspects of legal action seamlessly if a fair trial settlement becomes necessary. Their courtroom skills typically motivate settlements beforehand.
Reviewing any Offer Carefully
The lawyer scrutinizes any insurer’s offer closely before recommending acceptance to ensure they have carefully addressed all vehicle value impacts. They watch out for attempts to lowball offers and leave clients shortchanged. No offer gets approved without careful analysis.
Requesting Reconsideration of Offers
If an initial settlement offer still falls short, the lawyer can submit a compelling request for the insurer to reconsider and provide a higher counteroffer. Additional information on the case’s merits may be presented. Many times, reconsideration requests result in improved offers.
Resolving Liens or Title Issues
The lawyer can also handle additional title complications like outstanding liens, rental car company claims, or unfinished repair work to ensure the client’s maximum recovery. The lawyer takes care of any roadblocks.
Find Legal Guidance to Recover Diminished Value
An experienced diminished value advocate levels the playing field against insurers seeking to minimize payouts. Their legal knowledge and negotiation skills typically yield a multiplied return on fees by securing fair compensation that clients couldn’t obtain on their own.
Expert local counsel can be invaluable for Atlanta residents looking to recover their vehicle’s full lost value after an accident. An attorney well-versed in documenting claims, proving damages, and tenaciously negotiating will have the skills to maximize your payout.
Don’t simply accept an accident-related loss of value in your vehicle. Seeking out trusted diminished value representation provides victims with answers to questions like how to file a diminished value claim. Get in touch with a local diminished value lawyer today.