Diminished Value Claims: Montana
If your vehicle was damaged in an accident in the state of Montana and underwent repairs, its resale value is likely to be less than what it was before the crash. This holds true even if your vehicle was perfectly repaired and looks as good as new. This loss in market value is known as diminished value, and it is recoverable in Montana through a diminished value claim filed with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
Summary – Montana Diminished Value Claims
Statute of Limitations: 2 years
Third Party Diminished Value Claim: Yes
First Party Diminished Value Claim: No, most insurance policies will exclude diminished value
Montana Property Damage Minimum Limits: $20,000 in coverage
Uninsured Motorist Coverage for Diminished Value: No coverage
Underinsured Motorist Coverage for Diminished Value: No coverage
Montana Small Claims Court Limit: $7,000. Attorneys are only allowed when all parties are represented by an attorney. Appeals are permitted.
Montana Diminished Value Law
There is no reported case law precedent for recovering diminished value in Montana, however, the Restatement of Torts, Second § 928 Harm to Chattels provides:
When one is entitled to a judgment for harm to chattels not amounting to a total destruction in value, the damages include compensation for (a) the difference between the value of the chattel before the harm and the value after the harm or, at his election in an appropriate case, the reasonable cost of repair or restoration, with due allowance for any difference between the original value and the value after repairs, and (b) the loss of use.
How to File a Diminished Value Claim in Montana
Step 1. Prove your loss. You must supply evidence that you have lost value. An independent, unbiased appraisal will provide the documentation necessary to determine the diminished value of a vehicle.
Step 2. Submit your proof to the insurance company. You’ll need to submit a diminished value appraisal and demand letter to the at-fault insurance company for review.
Step 3. Claim settlement. Once you submit a diminished value appraisal report from a competent appraiser, most insurance companies will make a settlement offer. The insurance company may pay the claim in full, make a lower offer, or deny the claim.
Negotiate until they get firm with their offer. If you’re having trouble with the insurance company, you may need to consider legal action against the responsible party.
DVCHECK can assist you with your diminished value claim in Montana. If you have any questions, please call us at (850) 201-1950 or submit a request for a free estimate.
