Auto Accident Victims Are Entitled to Additional Compensation for Their Car's Loss in Value

CHICAGO, July 23 -- Most people know that when their car is in an accident and the other driver is at fault that they are entitled to quality repairs and parts, but what most don't realize is that they also deserve compensation for their car's loss in value.

ClaimCoach, www.claimcoach.com , an online automotive insurance claims service, provided expert testimony in a precedent setting lawsuit in Georgia forcing insurance companies to pay diminished value, a car's loss in value after an accident regardless of the quality of repair, on claims made by the person responsible for the accident. These claims are commonly called first party losses.

Nationally dozens of cases are pending regarding first party diminished value. "While rulings around the country have been mixed, the courts have historically ruled favorably in claims by motorists who have been hit by another vehicle or as they are referred to in the industry as third party claims," said Bill Geen, President of ClaimCoach.

"We believe there is a strong position for making diminished value claims when the other driver's insurance company is responsible for payment. If your car is hit by another driver you have the right to have your auto restored to its original condition," Geen said. "Since no car, even with quality repairs, is ever the same after an accident, you have the right to be compensated for the loss in value."

ClaimCoach's method of determining diminished value was one of three approved for use in Georgia. It was their testimony and analysis of thousands of claims in Georgia that led to the settlement of the lawsuit.

"Accident victims need help in deciding whether they have a right to payment for diminished value," Geen said. "We have made our method of determining diminished value available online to consumers to help them with their settlements."

ClaimCoach offers a free report that provides accident victims with a range in which their settlement should fall and then with a more detailed report ($59) for use in negotiation with their insurance company.

Equipped with ClaimCoach reports, 75 to 80% of their customers realize an average of $1,200.00 more on their car insurance settlement, Geen said.

For more information, visit www.claimcoach.com