LPT: If your car is fixed after an accident, don't just accept the repair - you may be owed diminished value

Assalamu alaykum. I only just learned this and figured others might not know either - insurance companies won't usually tell you. If your car was in an accident, it will show a damage/history flag. Even with perfect repairs, the vehicle is worth noticeably less than before the crash. If you try to trade it in soon after, a dealer will almost certainly offer less because of that record. That drop in market value is called "Inherent Diminished Value." In most states (excluding places with strict no-fault rules), the at-fault driver's insurance should cover that loss so you’re made whole again. How to pursue it: 1. Don’t just accept the "17c" worksheet: Some adjusters send a form that effectively limits payout to around 10% of value. That’s an internal method to lowball claims (unless you’re in Georgia where it’s different). You can reject it. 2. Get real comparables: Ask a dealer for a trade-in quote showing the accident history, and look up similar cars without accidents. The difference in value is what you can claim. 3. Send a demand letter: Explain that you want compensation for the reduced market value so you’re made whole. This is most effective for newer cars (roughly under 5–7 years old) with no previous accidents. The payout can often be a few thousand dollars, so it’s worth checking - don’t leave that money on the table. Wa iyyakum (and may Allah make things easy).