Skip to main content

Diminished Value
Expert Witness
Loss of Use
Forensics

CALL NOW FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

Find out if your vehicle qualifies for Diminished Value

WHAT IS DIMINISHED VALUE?

Diminished value is the difference between the pre-loss and post-repair fair market value of a vehicle. When a vehicle gets wrecked, consumer demand goes down even if a repair shop does a great job fixing it. As demand goes down, so does the value of the asset.

WHO DO I WORK FOR?

I am an independent expert appraiser. I have been hired by both consumers and insurance companies as a Diminished Value and Loss of Use expert witness. I am considered a genuine “car guy” with a passion for the automotive industry. My extensive knowledge of the automotive market and understanding of collision repairs will ensure you that I will accurately qualify and appraise the lost value of your vehicle.

WOULD YOU PAY THE SAME DOLLAR AMOUNT FOR THESE TWO VEHICLES?

DOES MY VEHICLE QUALIFY FOR DIMINISHED VALUE?

Take this 3 minute survey and we can help you figure that out!

Who is John Walker?

An Independent Expert Witness Appraiser with over 40 years’ experience in the following disciplines: Diminished Value (DV), Loss of Use, Market Value, Damage Appraisal, Poor Quality Collision Repair issues and Total Losses. I have testified under oath over 75 times at trials, depositions and arbitration hearings. I am not an attorney or public adjuster. I provide reliable expert opinions, not legal advice. I do not “puppy mill” my reports. Every appraisal I write, I author. I gladly work for the consumer or the insurance industry because I am truly independent.

Who do I collect from?

That depends on the circumstances. In most cases, you collect from the at fault party insurance company; or else through your own underinsured motorist coverage if applicable. Who must pay your claim is ultimately a legal question.

What will it cost?

A flat fee from $550 to $875 depending on what you request (Note: Exotics are quoted on an individual basis). My report includes an accurate and research-based appraisal of your vehicle’s pre and post-repair values, footnoted photos if I conduct an in person inspection, CARFAX or AutoCheck report and a dealership post repair market value quote.

Can I get an online report cheaper and faster?

Yes, but no insurance company will take you seriously. Shortcuts don’t pay off. These cheap outfits will not provide you with any support on how to navigate your claim to full resolution. I will always be there to help you make the process as stress free as possible.

How long does it take?

I complete the appraisal 2 weeks from either completion of repairs or funds secured. The average turnaround time for you to settle a non-litigated DV claim with an insurance company is 60-90 days. Expect a longer duration times if you hire a lawyer or go to small claims court.

What factors affect my vehicle's diminished value?

The pre-loss value of your vehicle, did the body shop repair leave unavoidable residual physical damage, the severity of the damage, whether you own or lease the vehicle, whether it has suffered prior damage, what state the accident happened in and others. I consider many complicated factors to ensure your case qualifies and if it doesn’t qualify, I will be the first to let you know.

Do I need an attorney?

Only an attorney can tell you whether you need an attorney. Some people hire attorneys, and others don’t. If you have a large diminished value claim it might behoove you to at least consult with legal counsel, to weigh all your options. Most attorneys offer free telephone or in-person consultations. Keep in mind, Washington State small claims court limit increased from $5,000 to $10,000 in 2019.

Does anyone recommend us?

Yes! Tesla • Porsche – Audi -Mercedes Benz of Bellevue • Lexus of Fife • Ferrari – Maserati of Seattle • Audi Seattle • University VW • BMW of Bellevue • Rodland Toyota • Lynnwood Honda • Jaguar – Land Rover Bellevue • Rolls Royce – Bentley – Lamborghini – Aston Martin of Bellevue • Park Place Bellevue • Law firms • Independent high-quality body shops • Many are referred to us by satisfied customers and coworkers.

Why do I come so highly recommended?

I am the only true independent Diminished Value and Loss of Use appraiser in the region.

Do I offer other services?

Yes! Collision repair forensics ~ exotics ~ classics ~ recreation vehicle ~ motorcycle and heavy truck appraisal.

CALL NOW FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

Find out if your vehicle qualifies for Diminished Value