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Detailed answer — step-by-step process

When your vehicle is damaged in an accident caused by someone else, the car can lose market value even after high-quality repairs. That loss is called diminished value. In Mississippi you can pursue that loss from the at-fault driver’s insurer or, if necessary, through a civil claim. The process below explains how to get a professional appraisal and how to use it to support a diminished value claim.

1. Know the types of diminished value

• Inherent diminished value: The market perception that a vehicle with an accident history is worth less than a comparable vehicle with no accidents.
• Repair-related diminished value: Loss caused by poor repairs or remaining damage after repairs.
• Immediate diminished value: The difference in market value right after the crash, before repairs.

2. Gather the facts before contacting an appraiser

Collect strong documentation. Appraisers and insurers rely on records and proof.

• Photos of the damage (before, during, after repairs).
• Repair estimates and final repair invoices.
• Vehicle maintenance and service records showing pre-accident condition.
• Vehicle identification number (VIN), mileage, trim level, and equipment list.
• Comparable sales or market listings for similar vehicles (model, year, mileage, region).
• Vehicle history report (Carfax, AutoCheck) showing pre- and post-accident history.

3. Choose a qualified diminished value appraiser

Look for an appraiser who prepares market-based diminished value reports and who has experience documenting claims for negotiation or litigation. Ask for sample reports and references. Confirm the fee, turnaround time, and whether the appraiser will testify if needed.

4. Types of appraisal methods you will see

• Market-comparison method: Compares your repaired vehicle to clean-title comparable vehicles and calculates value loss.
• Cost-based method: Looks at repair costs but this alone often understates inherent diminished value.
• Formula approaches: Insurers sometimes use automated formulas (for example, industry software or proprietary calculators). A professional appraisal that shows market evidence is usually stronger than a formula alone.

5. Obtain the written appraisal

A strong diminished value report should include:

• An explanation of the methodology used.
• Photographs and documentation of damage and repairs.
• Comparative market data (listings, sold prices) showing pre- and post-accident value.
• VIN, mileage, equipment and trim details.
• A clear, itemized diminished value number and the appraiser’s signature and credentials.

6. Submit your claim to the at-fault party’s insurer

Along with the appraisal, provide the insurer with repair invoices, photos, vehicle history, and a demand letter that states the diminished value amount and a deadline for response. Keep copies of everything and send documents by trackable mail or email.

7. If the insurer refuses or lowballs the offer

Try negotiation first. If negotiation fails, you can file a civil claim in the appropriate Mississippi court. For many disputes under a certain dollar amount, small claims or county court may be available. If you consider litigation, consult an attorney who handles auto property-damage claims to review the appraisal and your options.

8. Timing and deadlines

Do not delay gathering evidence. Market value comparisons are easier to document soon after repairs. Also be aware that Mississippi’s legal deadlines apply to civil claims for property damage, so avoid unnecessary delay. For general statutory information and to find applicable limitations, consult the Mississippi Legislature or the Mississippi Department of Insurance.

Mississippi Department of Insurance: https://www.mid.ms.gov/

Mississippi Legislature (statutes and code search): https://www.legislature.ms.gov/

9. Costs and payment

Appraisal fees vary based on complexity and region. Some appraisers charge a flat fee; others charge hourly. If you recover diminished value through negotiation or litigation, you may be able to recover appraisal-related costs depending on the case outcome and applicable law.

10. When to consult an attorney

Talk with an attorney if:

• The insurer denies responsibility for diminished value after receiving a full appraisal and demand;
• The insurer’s offer is far below a supported appraisal;
• Your case involves a high-value vehicle, complex damage, or potential bad-faith conduct by the insurer.

Helpful Hints

• Act promptly. The sooner you document condition and market data, the stronger your appraisal will be.
• Keep originals and backups of all documents and photos in case an insurer requests them.
• Ask the appraiser to explain their methodology in plain language so you can use the report in negotiations.
• Get multiple comparable listings and sold prices to support the market-comparison approach.
• If possible, obtain a pre-accident valuation (trade-in or private sale) or appraisal to strengthen your baseline proof.
• Use the Mississippi Department of Insurance as a resource for filing complaints or learning insurer obligations: https://www.mid.ms.gov/
• Document any communications with insurers (dates, person, what was said). This helps if you need to escalate.