How to File a Diminished Value Claim in Georgia - Complete Guide
Nov 6, 2025
If you’ve been in a car accident in Georgia that wasn’t your fault, you might already know that your car can lose value even after being repaired. This is called diminished value, and yes, you can file a diminished value claim in Georgia to recover that lost worth.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know: how Georgia’s diminished value law works, what steps to follow, and how services like My Fair Claim help car owners get fair compensation.
What Is a Diminished Value Claim?
A diminished value claim allows you to recover the difference between your car’s pre-accident value and its post-repair market value.
Even if your vehicle looks perfect after repairs, its history report (like Carfax) shows it was involved in an accident, which lowers its resale or trade-in value.
For example: Let’s say your 2022 Toyota Camry was worth $25,000 before the accident. After repairs, dealerships now offer only $21,000 because of the accident history. That $4,000 loss can be claimed through a Georgia diminished value claim.
First, Know Georgia Diminished Value Law
Georgia is one of the few states that strongly supports “inherent diminished value claims”. This means the law recognizes your right to compensation even if your car was repaired perfectly.
The landmark case Mabry v. State Farm (2001) established that insurance companies must consider diminished value when settling auto claims.
Key points you need to know under Georgia law:
You can file a claim only if you were not at fault.
The claim must be filed with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Your vehicle must have significant pre-accident market value (usually newer, low-mileage vehicles).
You should file as soon as possible, ideally within 2 years from the date of the accident.
How to File a Diminished Value Claim in Georgia? Step-by-Step Guide
To file a diminished value claim in Georgia, get a professional appraisal, submit it with repair and accident documents to the at-fault driver’s insurer, and negotiate for fair compensation. Georgia law allows recovery even after full repairs.
Here is the detailed step by step guide we have created -
Step 1: Get a Professional Diminished Value Appraisal
The first step is to determine how much your car’s value has decreased. Hire a certified diminished value appraiser, which specializes in accurate, data-backed reports accepted by insurance companies.
This report typically includes:
Vehicle details and accident history
Pre- and post-accident market value
Comparable vehicle sales data
Adjustments for mileage, damage severity, and condition
Step 2: File the Claim with the At-Fault Party’s Insurance
Submit your diminished value appraisal along with:
The police report
Proof of repair completion
Photos or repair invoices
Send these documents to the at-fault driver’s insurance adjuster and clearly state that you’re filing for diminished value compensation.
Step 3: Negotiate the Offer
Insurance companies often start with a low settlement offer. Use your appraisal report to justify your claim’s value. If needed, ask for a written explanation of how they calculated their number.
My Fair Claim customers often see insurers increase offers by 50–200% after professional negotiation support.
Step 4: Escalate If Necessary
If negotiations stall:
File a complaint with the Georgia Department of Insurance, or
Consult a diminished value expert or attorney for further help.
My Fair Claim assists clients with documentation and communication to ensure fair compensation, often avoiding the need for legal escalation.
How My Fair Claim Can Help Georgia Drivers
At My Fair Claim, we’ve helped hundreds of Georgia car owners file and win diminished value claims. One of our clients from Atlanta had a 2021 Honda Accord that lost nearly $5,500 in value after a minor collision.
With our certified appraisal report, the insurer initially offered $1,000; however, after review and negotiation, the client received a settlement of $4,200.
Our process includes:
Expert vehicle inspection and valuation
Personalized claim assistance
Negotiation support with insurance companies
That means you can focus on getting back on the road — while we handle the paperwork.
When Should You File a Diminished Value Claim in Georgia?
It’s best to start right after your car is repaired. The longer you wait, the harder it can be to prove the post-accident market impact.
Remember, under Georgia law, you typically have two years from the accident date to submit your diminished value claim.
Key Takeaways You Should Know
Georgia allows inherent diminished value claims, even if your car was fully repaired.
Only the not-at-fault driver can file this type of claim.
Get a professional appraisal to support your case.
File the claim with the at-fault party’s insurer and be ready to negotiate.
My Fair Claim simplifies the entire process and helps you maximize your settlement.
If your car has lost value after an accident that wasn’t your fault, don’t leave money on the table.
Filing a diminished value claim in Georgia is your legal right, and with the right guidance, it’s easier than most people think.
Contact Now to get your free claim evaluation with My Fair Claim today and find out how much your car may have lost in value.