{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "HowTo",
  "name": "How to handle a diminished value claim",
  "description": "Even after perfect repair, an accident-history car typically loses 10-30% of its resale value. Texas allows recovery of this loss from the at-fault driver's insurance — but you have to ask.",
  "url": "https://axiscollisioncenter.com/api/v1/howto/how-to-handle-a-diminished-value-claim.json",
  "inLanguage": "en-US",
  "publisher": {
    "@type": "LocalBusiness",
    "name": "Axis Collision Center",
    "url": "https://axiscollisioncenter.com"
  },
  "step": [
    {
      "@type": "HowToStep",
      "position": 1,
      "name": "Confirm you're eligible",
      "text": "You must NOT be the at-fault driver. The claim is against the OTHER driver's liability insurance, not your own carrier."
    },
    {
      "@type": "HowToStep",
      "position": 2,
      "name": "Get your repair documentation",
      "text": "Save all repair invoices, parts lists, and the official damage report."
    },
    {
      "@type": "HowToStep",
      "position": 3,
      "name": "Get an independent appraisal",
      "text": "A licensed auto appraiser can quantify the loss in resale value. Cost typically $200-$500. Multiple firms in the Houston area offer this."
    },
    {
      "@type": "HowToStep",
      "position": 4,
      "name": "File the diminished value claim",
      "text": "Send the appraisal + repair documentation to the at-fault driver's insurance carrier with a written demand letter."
    },
    {
      "@type": "HowToStep",
      "position": 5,
      "name": "Negotiate",
      "text": "Insurers often counter with a low offer. If the carrier refuses to pay reasonable diminished value, you can pursue small-claims court (Texas threshold: $20,000)."
    },
    {
      "@type": "HowToStep",
      "position": 6,
      "name": "Know the deadline",
      "text": "Texas statute of limitations for property damage claims is 2 years from the accident date. Don't wait."
    }
  ],
  "canonical": "https://axiscollisioncenter.com/api/v1/howto/how-to-handle-a-diminished-value-claim.json"
}