What Exactly Is a Property Damage Attorney?

After a car accident, your focus is often on getting your vehicle fixed and back on the road. But when the insurance company’s offer doesn’t even come close to covering the costs, it can feel like you’re hitting a brick wall. This is where a property damage attorney comes in. Think of them as your dedicated advocate, a legal expert whose entire job is to make sure you get the full and fair compensation you’re owed for damage to your vehicle and other property.

They specialize in the nitty-gritty of property claims, from the cost of repairs to the loss of your car’s value after an accident. Unlike the insurance adjuster, who works for the insurance company, a property damage attorney works for you. They step in to challenge lowball offers, fight unfair claim denials, and handle all the complex negotiations so you don’t have to. Their goal is simple: to hold the insurance company accountable and ensure you have the money you need to make things right. Our firm provides these exact legal services to ensure you’re not left paying out-of-pocket for someone else’s mistake.

Your car is more than just a way to get around; it’s a significant financial asset. But the moment it’s in an accident, its value takes a major hit—even after it’s been perfectly repaired. This loss, known as diminished value, is a real cost that insurance companies often hope you’ll overlook. They might offer a quick check for the initial repairs, but they rarely volunteer to pay for the thousands of dollars your car has lost in resale value. Protecting your investment requires an expert who understands how to prove and recover these specific losses. A skilled property damage car accident attorney ensures you are compensated for the complete financial impact of the accident, not just the visible dents and scratches.

Key Takeaways

Hire a specialist for a specialized problem: A property damage attorney focuses specifically on your vehicle’s value and repair costs, using their expertise to counter insurance company tactics and fight for a settlement that truly covers your losses.
Demand compensation for all your losses: A fair settlement goes beyond the initial repair estimate. It should also include the cost of a rental car, damaged personal property, and the significant loss in your car’s resale value, known as diminished value.
Protect your claim from the very beginning: Avoid common mistakes like admitting fault, accepting the first lowball offer, or delaying your report. If an insurance adjuster pressures you or denies your claim without a good reason, it’s time to get professional help.

What They Do for You

A property damage attorney does more than just make phone calls. They take on the entire burden of your claim. First, they will thoroughly assess the full extent of your damages, which often goes beyond the initial repair estimate. This includes calculating the diminished value of your car—the loss in resale value it suffers even after being perfectly repaired. They will gather evidence, consult with auto repair experts, and build a solid case to prove the true cost of your loss. From there, they handle all communications and negotiations with the insurance company, using their expertise to counter common tactics and push for a fair settlement. If the insurer refuses to cooperate, your attorney is prepared to file a lawsuit to get you the money you deserve.

How They’re Different from Personal Injury Lawyers

It’s easy to confuse property damage attorneys with personal injury lawyers, but they focus on two very different aspects of an accident. A personal injury lawyer handles claims related to physical harm—things like medical bills, lost wages from being unable to work, and pain and suffering. Their focus is on your well-being.

A property damage attorney, on the other hand, concentrates exclusively on your property. Their expertise is in your car, its value, the quality of repairs, and any personal items inside that were damaged. While some attorneys handle both, a lawyer who specializes in property damage has a deep understanding of vehicle valuation and the specific insurance laws that govern these claims. If your primary struggle is with getting your car fixed correctly and fairly compensated, you need an expert in that specific field. If you’re ready to talk to a specialist, you can contact us for a case evaluation.

Why Hire a Property Damage Attorney After a Car Accident?

After a car accident, your first thought might be about injuries, but the damage to your vehicle is a major source of stress and financial strain. You might assume handling the insurance claim is straightforward, but it’s often a complex process where your interests and the insurer’s interests don’t align. An attorney who specializes in property damage claims acts as your dedicated advocate, making sure you aren’t left with a poorly repaired car or a check that doesn’t cover your actual losses.

Hiring a lawyer isn’t about being difficult; it’s about being smart. Insurance companies are businesses focused on their bottom line, which often means paying out as little as possible. A property damage attorney levels the playing field. They understand the tactics insurers use and know how to counter them with evidence and expert negotiation. From ensuring your car is repaired correctly to fighting for its lost value, having a professional on your side protects your investment and your peace of mind.

Get the Full Compensation You Deserve

It’s easy to underestimate the full financial impact of a car accident. The insurance adjuster might offer a quick settlement that covers the initial repair estimate, but what about the hidden costs? A skilled attorney looks at the complete picture. They will fight to ensure your compensation covers not just the repairs, but also the loss in your vehicle’s resale value, known as a diminished value claim. They also account for rental car costs and any damage to personal items that were in your car. Their goal is to make you financially whole again, not just patch up the visible damage.

Counteract Insurance Company Tactics

Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers trained to minimize payouts. Their initial offer is almost never their best offer. They may pressure you to accept a low amount quickly, use confusing language, or dispute the cost of necessary repairs. A property damage attorney knows how to push back. They will gather all the necessary documentation, from police reports to independent repair quotes, to build a strong case that proves the true value of your claim. By presenting a well-supported argument, they can effectively challenge lowball offers and negotiate for a much fairer settlement.

Leverage Their Legal Expertise

The claims process is filled with deadlines, complicated forms, and specific legal standards. A single misstep can jeopardize your claim. An attorney brings deep legal knowledge to the table, ensuring every part of your claim is handled correctly and on time. They understand Georgia’s specific laws regarding property damage and insurance claims. If the insurance company unfairly denies your claim or refuses to negotiate in good faith, your lawyer will know exactly what steps to take next, whether that means filing a formal appeal or preparing for legal action. This expertise is crucial for getting the results you deserve.

Save Yourself Time and Stress

Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident is exhausting. The last thing you need is the added burden of back-and-forth calls with insurance adjusters, haggling with body shops, and trying to decipher complex paperwork. Handing the claim over to an attorney frees you up to focus on your life. They manage all the communication, handle the negotiations, and take that weight off your shoulders. Knowing a professional is fighting for your best interests provides invaluable peace of mind during a difficult time. If you’re ready to let an expert handle it, you can contact us for a free consultation.

What Kinds of Damage Can an Attorney Help You Claim?

After a car accident, your first thought is probably about the crumpled bumper or the shattered headlight. But a property damage claim can cover much more than just the obvious repairs. It’s designed to make you whole again, which includes compensating you for a wide range of losses you might not have even considered. An experienced attorney knows exactly what to look for and can help you identify and claim every dollar you’re entitled to. From the cost of a rental car to the lost value of your vehicle, these are all legitimate damages. Let’s break down the different types of compensation you can pursue.

Vehicle Repair and Replacement

This is the most straightforward part of any property damage claim. You’re entitled to have your car repaired to its pre-accident condition. An attorney ensures the insurance company’s approved estimate is fair and covers the full cost of quality repairs using the right parts—not cheap, aftermarket substitutes. If the damage is so severe that your car is declared a total loss, we fight to make sure the insurer offers a settlement that reflects your vehicle’s actual market value. The goal is simple: to get you the money you need to either properly fix your car or replace it with a comparable one. Our legal representation is focused on making that happen without the stress of dealing with the insurance company alone.

Damage to Personal Property

Think about what was inside your car during the crash. Was your laptop in the trunk? Were your sunglasses in the center console? Was your child’s car seat in the back? Any personal belongings damaged in the accident are also part of your claim. It’s easy to overlook these items when you’re focused on the vehicle itself, but their value can add up quickly. An attorney will help you create a detailed inventory of all damaged personal property—from electronics to clothing—and ensure it’s included in your settlement demand. We make sure the insurance company doesn’t ignore these very real losses.

Rental Car Reimbursement

Being without your car is more than just an inconvenience; it disrupts your entire life. While your vehicle is in the repair shop, you have the right to a rental car, and the at-fault party’s insurance should cover the cost. However, adjusters often try to limit this coverage, either by putting a cap on the daily rental rate or by pressuring you to return the rental before your car is actually ready. An attorney steps in to protect your rights, fighting to get you a comparable rental vehicle for the entire duration of the repairs so you can continue with your daily routine without interruption.

Diminished Value Claims

This is one of the most overlooked but significant parts of a property damage claim. Even after your car has been perfectly repaired, it’s worth less than it was before the accident simply because it now has an accident history. This loss in resale value is known as diminished value. Most people don’t realize they can be compensated for this loss, and insurance companies certainly won’t volunteer to pay it. An attorney can help you prove and recover this amount. We specialize in calculating and fighting for your diminished value claim to ensure you’re compensated for the full financial impact of the accident.

How Your Attorney Will Handle the Insurance Company

Once you hire a property damage attorney, you’re no longer alone in the fight. Think of them as your professional advocate—someone who steps in to manage all communication and negotiations with the insurance company so you don’t have to. Insurance adjusters are trained negotiators whose goal is to protect their company’s bottom line by paying out as little as possible. They handle claims like yours every single day. An experienced attorney levels that playing field.

Your lawyer understands the tactics adjusters use and knows how to counter them effectively. They take over the stressful phone calls, the endless paperwork, and the frustrating back-and-forth. Instead of you trying to argue your case based on emotion or frustration, your attorney will build a strategic, evidence-based claim designed to get results. They will present your case in the specific legal and factual terms that insurance companies are required to respond to. This shifts the dynamic from a simple customer complaint to a formal legal demand, forcing the insurer to take your claim far more seriously. From start to finish, your attorney’s job is to provide the legal representation you need and ensure the insurance company is held to its obligations.

Negotiating a Fair Settlement on Your Behalf

Negotiating with an insurance company is more than just asking for a higher number. A skilled attorney builds a comprehensive demand package that details every aspect of your loss. They will assess the full extent of your damages, including the obvious repair costs, rental car expenses, and any personal items that were damaged. More importantly, they will calculate the diminished value of your vehicle—the loss in resale value it suffers simply because it now has an accident history. This is a crucial part of your claim that insurers often try to ignore. Your lawyer will present a clear, itemized demand backed by evidence to kick off negotiations from a position of strength.

Challenging Lowball Offers and Unfair Denials

It’s incredibly common for an insurance company’s first offer to be shockingly low. This is a deliberate tactic; they hope you’re stressed enough to accept a quick, cheap payout and move on. An attorney knows not to take the bait. Instead, they will systematically break down the insurer’s offer, point out its flaws, and present counter-evidence. This can include independent repair estimates, vehicle valuation reports, and market analysis for comparable cars. If your claim is unfairly denied, your lawyer can formally appeal the decision, provide new evidence, and build a strong case to demonstrate why the denial is unjustified and should be overturned.

Holding Insurers Accountable for Bad Faith

Insurance companies have a legal duty to handle your claim fairly and in a timely manner. When they fail to do so—by using deceptive practices, refusing to pay a valid claim without reason, or creating unnecessary delays—it may be considered “bad faith.” Your attorney knows how to identify these practices and hold the insurer accountable. They can put legal pressure on the company to act appropriately. If the insurer continues to refuse to negotiate fairly, your lawyer can advise you on the next steps, which may include filing a formal complaint or even a lawsuit to fight for the compensation you are legally owed.

Ensuring a Complete and Accurate Damage Assessment

The insurance company’s initial damage assessment is often designed to find the cheapest, not the most thorough, repair solution. Your attorney will fight for a complete and accurate assessment of the damage. This means ensuring the estimate accounts for high-quality, original manufacturer parts (OEM) instead of cheaper aftermarket ones. They can help you engage an independent appraiser to get a second opinion on the repair costs and the vehicle’s loss in value. By ensuring every detail is properly documented and valued, your lawyer makes sure the final settlement truly covers the full cost of restoring your vehicle to its pre-accident condition.

How to Choose the Right Property Damage Attorney

Finding the right legal partner can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re dealing with the aftermath of an accident, you need an advocate who not only understands the law but also gets what you’re going through. The right attorney can make all the difference in getting a fair outcome. Think of this as a hiring process where you’re in the driver’s seat. Here are four key areas to focus on to find the best property damage attorney for your case.

Look for Specialized Experience in Property Damage

Not all car accident lawyers are the same. Many focus primarily on personal injury claims, which involve medical bills and physical recovery. While important, that’s a different ballgame than property damage. You want someone who lives and breathes vehicle valuations, repair estimates, and diminished value claims. It’s crucial to find an attorney with specialized experience in negotiating with insurance companies specifically on property issues. An expert in this area will have access to the right resources to accurately value your damage and build a stronger case for the full amount you’re owed.

Ask About Their Track Record

Don’t be shy about asking direct questions about a potential attorney’s past performance. During your initial consultation, inquire about their track record with cases like yours. You can ask about their success rates in securing fair settlements and how often they have to challenge insurance companies. These metrics give you essential insights and empower you to make an informed decision about who will represent you. A confident attorney will be transparent about their experience and results, helping you feel secure that you’re placing your trust in capable hands.

Read Client Reviews and Testimonials

Numbers and case results tell one part of the story, but client reviews tell another. Reading testimonials from past clients offers a valuable perspective on an attorney’s communication style, professionalism, and effectiveness. You can see how they treated people who were in your exact situation. Many people who try to handle claims alone find they don’t receive the fair value they deserve. By reviewing feedback, you can gauge an attorney’s ability to truly advocate for your best interests. Check their website, Google business profile, and social media pages for unfiltered client experiences.

Understand Their Fee Structure Upfront

Before you sign anything, make sure you have a crystal-clear understanding of the attorney’s fee structure. Most property damage attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they win a settlement for you. This is great because it means you don’t have to pay anything upfront. Still, it’s important to know what percentage they take and if there are any other potential costs. Having clarity on fees from the start helps you make a confident choice about moving forward. A reputable firm will be happy to contact you and walk you through their agreement so there are no surprises.

What Does It Cost to Hire a Property Damage Attorney?

Let’s talk about money. After an accident, the last thing you need is another bill, and many people worry about the cost of hiring a lawyer. But what if getting expert legal help didn’t require any upfront payment? Most property damage attorneys, including our team at Gastley Law, work on a contingency fee basis. This model gives you access to professional representation without the financial risk. We only get paid if we successfully recover money for you. Here’s how it works.

Understanding Contingency Fees (You Don’t Pay Upfront)

A contingency fee is simple: you don’t pay your attorney anything out of pocket. Instead of hourly rates, the lawyer’s payment is “contingent” on winning your case. When they secure a settlement, they receive a pre-agreed percentage of that amount, usually 30-40%. This structure aligns our goals with yours—we’re motivated to get you the maximum compensation because our payment depends on it. It makes expert legal help accessible to everyone, leveling the playing field against the insurance company. You can get in touch with us for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case.

What About Other Costs and Expenses?

While the attorney’s fee is contingent, some cases involve other expenses. These are costs for building a strong claim, like fees for accident reports or hiring an independent appraiser for an unbiased damage estimate. A trustworthy attorney will be completely transparent about these potential costs from the start. During your initial consultation, we provide a clear breakdown of any expenses that might arise so there are no surprises. Our goal is to equip you with all the information you need to make the best decision for your situation.

How an Attorney Can Pay for Themselves

Hiring an attorney is an investment in getting the full amount you’re owed. Studies show that accident victims with legal representation often recover far more compensation than those who go it alone. A skilled attorney knows how to calculate all your losses, including tricky ones like diminished value—the drop in your car’s resale value after an accident. Beyond the money, an attorney takes the stress off your shoulders. They handle the paperwork, phone calls, and tough negotiations with the adjuster. This frees you to focus on getting your life back to normal while they fight for you.

What Factors Determine Your Final Compensation?

When you’re waiting for the insurance company to make an offer, it can feel like they pull a number out of thin air. But your final compensation isn’t random. It’s calculated based on a few key factors that can significantly swing the final amount you receive. Understanding these elements is the first step toward ensuring you’re getting a fair deal. From your car’s pre-accident worth to the quality of your paperwork, each piece plays a vital role in building your property damage claim. Let’s break down what the insurance adjuster is looking at so you can be better prepared for the negotiation process.

Your Vehicle’s Market Value

One of the most common points of confusion is how a vehicle’s worth is determined. Insurance companies don’t base their payout on what you originally paid for your car or how much you still owe on your loan. Instead, they use its “actual cash value” (ACV), which is the market value of your vehicle right before the accident happened. This figure accounts for depreciation, mileage, and overall condition. Insurers often use their own valuation tools, which can result in a lowball estimate. It’s important to do your own research to have a realistic idea of your car’s true worth. This also ties directly into diminished value, which is the loss in market value your car suffers even after being fully repaired.

The Severity of the Damage

It seems obvious, but the extent of the damage is a primary driver of your settlement amount. This isn’t just about the visible dents and scratches; it includes any underlying structural, mechanical, or electrical issues caused by the collision. A minor fender-bender will result in a much lower payout than an accident that causes frame damage or deploys airbags. This is why a comprehensive damage assessment from a trusted repair shop is so critical. An initial estimate might miss hidden problems that only become apparent once a mechanic starts taking things apart. A thorough evaluation ensures that your claim covers the full cost of restoring your vehicle to its pre-accident condition, which is a core part of our legal services.

The At-Fault Party’s Insurance Policy Limits

Even if your damages are extensive, the amount you can recover is often capped by the at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits. In Georgia, drivers are required to carry a minimum of $25,000 in property damage liability coverage. If your repair costs or vehicle replacement value exceeds that amount, the other driver’s insurance company won’t pay a penny more. For example, if your car is totaled and was worth $35,000, you could be left with a $10,000 shortfall. In these situations, you may need to explore other options, such as filing a claim through your own collision coverage (if you have it) or pursuing a legal case directly against the at-fault driver to recover the difference.

The Quality of Your Documentation

Strong documentation is the foundation of a successful property damage claim. The more evidence you have, the harder it is for an insurance company to dispute the facts or downplay your losses. Your file should include everything from the police report and photos of the accident scene to repair estimates from multiple body shops and records of your rental car expenses. Keeping a detailed log of every conversation you have with the insurance adjuster—including the date, time, and what was discussed—is also incredibly helpful. This paperwork creates a clear, undeniable record of your damages and expenses. If organizing all this feels overwhelming, that’s a good sign it’s time to contact an attorney for help.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Your Property Damage Claim

After a car accident, it’s easy to make a misstep that could cost you. Insurance companies are looking for any reason to pay out less than what you’re owed, and a few common mistakes can give them the opening they need. Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. By avoiding these simple but critical errors, you can protect your claim and put yourself in a much stronger position to get the full compensation you deserve for your vehicle.

Don’t Delay Reporting the Accident

The moments after an accident are chaotic, but it’s essential to report what happened as soon as possible. Failing to promptly notify both the police and your insurance company can create unnecessary complications. Insurers have deadlines for reporting claims, and missing them could jeopardize your case. A delay can also make it seem like your damages weren’t serious, giving the adjuster an excuse to question the severity of your claim. Even if the damage seems minor, file a police report and contact your insurer right away. This creates an official record and starts the claims process on the right foot.

Don’t Skimp on Photos and Documentation

Your smartphone is one of the most powerful tools you have at an accident scene. Poorly documenting the damage is a surefire way to weaken your claim. Take clear photos and videos of both vehicles from every angle, capturing the license plates and the overall scene, including any skid marks or debris. Don’t forget to photograph the other driver’s license, registration, and insurance card. If there are witnesses, get their names and contact information. This evidence is crucial for proving the extent of the damage and establishing what happened. Strong documentation makes it much harder for an insurance company to dispute your claim.

Avoid Admitting Fault at the Scene

It’s natural to be apologetic after a collision, but you should never admit fault. A simple “I’m so sorry” can be interpreted as an admission of guilt and used against you by the insurance adjuster. Stick to the facts when speaking with the other driver and the police. Let the investigators and insurance companies determine who was at fault based on the evidence. Admitting responsibility, even partially, can seriously complicate your ability to receive fair compensation for your damages. Your focus should be on exchanging information and ensuring everyone is safe, not assigning blame.

Never Accept the First Settlement Offer

Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to resolve claims for the lowest possible amount. Their first offer is almost always a lowball figure, sent quickly in the hopes you’ll accept it and move on. This initial offer rarely accounts for the full cost of repairs, a rental car, or the loss in your vehicle’s resale value, also known as diminished value. Always take a step back and have any offer reviewed by an expert. Accepting that first check means signing away your right to seek further compensation, even if you discover more damage later. It’s always wise to consult with an attorney before you agree to any settlement.

What to Expect When You Work with an Attorney

Deciding to work with an attorney can feel like a big step, but the process is more straightforward than you might think. A good lawyer will guide you through everything, handling the complexities so you can focus on getting your car and your life back in order. From the first conversation to the final settlement, here’s a clear, step-by-step look at what happens when you team up with a property damage attorney.

Step 1: Your Initial Consultation and Case Review

Your journey starts with an initial consultation. This is your chance to share your story and show the attorney all the documents you have, like the police report, photos, and any communication from the insurance company. They’ll review everything to get a clear picture of your situation and assess the strength of your claim. This first meeting is crucial because the attorney can immediately spot what’s missing, suggest what other evidence you might need, and outline a clear path forward. It’s a no-pressure conversation designed to give you clarity and confidence in your next steps.

Step 2: Gathering All the Necessary Evidence

Once you decide to move forward, your attorney will take the lead on building a rock-solid case. This involves gathering all the essential evidence to prove the full extent of your damages. They’ll help you organize everything from repair estimates and rental car receipts to photos of the damage and records of every conversation with the insurer. A thorough collection of evidence is the foundation of a successful claim, especially for something as specific as a diminished value argument. Your attorney knows exactly what’s needed to build the strongest case possible, ensuring no detail is overlooked.

Step 3: Filing the Claim and Starting Negotiations

With all the evidence in hand, your attorney will formally file the claim and take over all communication with the insurance company. This is where their expertise really shines. They will present your case in the most effective way and begin negotiations for a fair settlement. Your lawyer will calculate the full scope of your losses—including current repair costs, future expenses, and diminished value—and fight for the maximum compensation you’re entitled to. You no longer have to deal with adjusters or worry about saying the wrong thing; your attorney becomes your dedicated advocate.

Step 4: Reaching a Settlement or Taking Further Action

The goal is always to secure a fair settlement that covers all your losses. Your attorney will work diligently, negotiating with the insurance company to reach an agreement that makes you whole again. They will keep you informed every step of the way, explaining any offers you receive. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount, your attorney won’t back down. They will be fully prepared to take further legal action to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. You can learn more about the firm’s legal representation and commitment to clients.

When Is the Right Time to Call an Attorney?

After a car accident, you have a lot on your plate. Between dealing with repairs and rearranging your schedule, calling a lawyer might feel like one more thing to add to a long list. But knowing when to get professional help is key to protecting your rights and getting the money you’re owed. The short answer is: it’s almost never too soon. An early consultation can set the course for your entire claim and prevent costly mistakes. The right time to call is as soon as you feel overwhelmed, confused, or suspect the insurance company isn’t treating you fairly.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Get Help

It’s tempting to try and handle everything yourself, but waiting to call an attorney can put you at a disadvantage. Evidence can disappear, witness memories can fade, and crucial deadlines can pass. Getting a lawyer involved early ensures that your claim is built on a solid foundation from day one. People who hire an attorney for their accident claims generally receive significantly more compensation than those who go it alone. An attorney acts as your advocate, making sure your side of the story is heard and that you have a clear strategy. Getting professional legal representation early on provides peace of mind and lets you focus on getting your life back to normal while an expert handles the complexities of your claim.

Warning Signs You Need Legal Representation

Sometimes, it becomes very clear that you need a professional in your corner. If the insurance company outright denies your claim, it’s a definite sign to call an attorney who can help you appeal the decision. Another major red flag is receiving a settlement offer that is obviously too low to cover the cost of your repairs and other losses. Don’t feel pressured to accept it. You should also seek legal advice if the insurance adjuster is delaying the process, ignoring your calls, or trying to place unfair blame on you for the accident. Complex situations, like your car being declared a total loss or filing a significant diminished value claim, are also best handled with an attorney’s guidance.

Red Flags from the Insurance Adjuster

Insurance adjusters are trained negotiators, and their goal is to save their company money. It’s important to recognize the tactics they might use. Be wary if an adjuster pressures you for a quick settlement. They often offer a low amount upfront, hoping you’ll take it before you realize the full extent of your damages. Another red flag is a request for a recorded statement immediately after the accident; anything you say can be used against you later. If the adjuster tells you that you don’t need a lawyer or denies your claim for a vague reason, like saying the damage “isn’t covered,” it’s time to get a professional opinion. When you feel like you’re not being treated fairly, contact an attorney to step in and advocate for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it really worth hiring an attorney if my car’s damage seems minor? Even accidents that seem minor can have hidden costs. What looks like a small dent could be hiding frame damage, and any accident history automatically lowers your car’s resale value. An attorney ensures that a thorough inspection is done and fights for you to be compensated for that loss in value, known as a diminished value claim. We make sure you get what you need to cover all damages, not just the ones you can see.

What if the accident was partially my fault? Can you still help me? Yes, absolutely. Georgia law allows you to recover damages as long as you are found to be less than 50% at fault for the accident. Insurance companies may try to shift more blame onto you to reduce what they have to pay. We can step in to protect your rights and build a case that accurately reflects what happened, ensuring you can still claim the compensation you are legally owed.

My car is already repaired. Is it too late to make a diminished value claim? Not at all. In fact, the best time to pursue a diminished value claim is after your vehicle has been fully repaired. The claim is specifically for the loss in market value your car suffers simply because it now has an accident on its record. Even with perfect repairs, it’s worth less than it was before the crash, and you deserve to be compensated for that difference.

How is hiring your firm different from just letting the insurance company handle it? When you let the insurance company handle it, you’re dealing with a business whose goal is to pay out as little as possible. When you hire our firm, you get a dedicated advocate whose only goal is to get you the maximum compensation you deserve. We work for you, not the insurer. We handle all the negotiations and paperwork to ensure you are paid fairly for everything, including repairs, rental costs, and the diminished value of your car.

I’m worried about the cost. How much do I have to pay upfront? You pay nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means our payment is a percentage of the money we successfully recover for you. If we don’t win your case, you don’t owe us an attorney’s fee. This approach allows you to get expert legal help without any financial risk, ensuring everyone has access to fair representation.