16/03/2026
Many drivers don’t realize that after a car accident that wasn’t their fault, they may be entitled to something called a Diminished Value claim.
Even when a vehicle is repaired properly, its market value is often lower simply because it now has an accident history. In many cases, the at-fault insurance company may owe the vehicle owner compensation for that loss in value — sometimes amounting to hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
In Texas, you have up to two years from the date of the accident to pursue a diminished value claim.
As an experienced auto damage appraiser, I’ve spent years evaluating vehicle damage and repair costs. I now also assist vehicle owners with Diminished Value claims, helping determine whether a claim may apply and guiding clients through the process of pursuing the compensation they may be owed.
Not every vehicle will qualify. Generally speaking:
• The accident must not be your fault
• The vehicle should have had meaningful pre-loss value
• Prior accident history can affect eligibility
• Leased vehicles do not qualify
However, newer vehicles with clean histories and moderate to significant collision damage are often the strongest candidates for diminished value claims. With that said, don't automatically disqualify your vehicle that is 8 years old, good condition, and lower mileage, as those vehicles can definitely suffer diminished value. An 8 year old vehicle, very clean prior to the accident,
