Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page, where we’ve streamlined your experience by organizing key topics into three distinct categories to guide you through common concerns after an accident. Whether you're navigating Loss of Use, seeking answers about Diminished Value, or determining your next steps after a Total Loss, each column provides clear, actionable information tailored to your needs. Explore the sections to understand your rights, discover solutions, and uncover how we can support you in achieving the best possible outcome for your claim. Let us help you take the guesswork out of the process.
WPI 30.16 Measure of Damages— Damage to Personal Property—Loss of Use
Reasonable compensation for any loss of use of any damaged property during
the time reasonably required for its [repair] [replacement]. Holmes v. Raffo, 60 Wn.2d 421, 433, 374 P.2d 536 (1962)
What is Loss of Use?
Loss of Use is the inability to have access to your property due to damage or interference, often leading to compensation for lost functionality.
How long can I pursue a Loss of Use claim?
The time limit to file a Loss of Use claim depends on local laws and the claim type. Property damage claims typically have a 2–6 year statute of limitations, while insurance or contract claims may vary. Notify insurers promptly, as their deadlines might differ.
Can I still file a Loss of Use claim if I didn’t rent a vehicle?
Yes, you can still file a Loss of Use claim even if you didn’t rent a vehicle. Compensation for Loss of Use is based on the loss of your vehicle’s availability, not whether you rented a replacement.
What should I do if the insurance company disputes my Loss of Use claim?
Disputes may arise, and Harber Appraisal can provide a detailed third-party report to help present your case effectively.
How does Harber Appraisal support Loss of Use claims?
We analyze repair timelines, market data, and policies to create comprehensive evaluations reports to assist your claim.
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Moeller vs Farmers
“A vehicle suffers diminished value when it sustains physical damage in an accident but due to the nature of the damage it cannot be fully restored to its pre-loss condition. The remaining irreparable physical damage such as for example weakened metal which cannot be repaired, and which results in diminished value.” Moeller v. Farmers Ins. Co. of Washington, 155 Wn. App. 133, 229 P.3d 857 (Div II 2010), aff’d 169 Wn.2d 2001, (2011).
How can I determine if my vehicle qualifies for a Diminished Value claim?
Vehicles that have been in accidents and repaired may have a reduced market value, which could qualify for a claim.
What factors influence the Diminished Value of my vehicle?
Factors may include the extent of the damage, quality of repairs, vehicle age, mileage, and market demand.
Can I file a Diminished Value claim if the accident wasn’t my fault?
If the other driver was at fault, you can file a claim against their insurance for the diminished value of your vehicle. Another avenue is if an underinsured motorist is involved and you have coverage for this.
Are there time limits for filing a Diminished Value claim?
Most states allow 2–6 years from the date of the accident to file a diminished value claim.
What role does Harber Appraisal play in a Diminished Value claim?
We provide independent evaluations to assess the post-repair market value of your vehicle and document the difference.
Total loss" means that the insurer has determined that the cost of parts and labor, plus the salvage value, meets or exceeds, or is likely to meet or exceed, the "actual cash value" of the loss vehicle. Other factors may be considered in reaching the total loss determination, such as the existence of a biohazard or a death in the vehicle resulting from the loss.
How do insurance companies decide if my vehicle is a total loss?
A vehicle may be declared a total loss if the repair costs exceed a certain percentage of its pre-accident value, as determined by the insurer.
What are my options if I disagree with the total loss value assigned by my insurer?
If you disagree, you can seek an independent evaluation. Harber Appraisal offers thorough assessments to assist in such cases.
Can I retain ownership of my vehicle after it’s declared a total loss?
Some policies allow you to retain the vehicle, though the payout may be adjusted to reflect its salvage value.
Does a total loss designation affect other claims like Loss of Use?
A total loss claim may take precedence, but Harber Appraisal can review your case to explore any additional considerations.
How can Harber Appraisal assist with Total Loss claims?
We provide detailed evaluations of your vehicle’s pre-accident condition to support your discussions with the insurer.
We understand the claims process can involve a lot of unfamiliar terminology. Our Acronym Guide provides a quick and easy reference to the most commonly used terms and abbreviations in the insurance, appraisal, and legal processes. From the initial accident to final settlements, this guide helps you stay informed and confident every step of the way.
Accident/Incident Related
​
AOI: Area of Impact
DOI: Date of Incident
MVA: Motor Vehicle Accident
PIP: Personal Injury Protection
TPD: Third Party Driver
FMV: Fair Market Value
POI: Point of Impact
TP: Third Party
ROI: Return on Investment
(used in repair cost evaluations)
CDW: Collision Damage Waiver
Insurance Terminology
​
CL: Claim
LOU: Loss of Use
DV: Diminished Value
TL: Total Loss
TLP: Total Loss Payout
ACV: Actual Cash Value
UM: Uninsured Motorist
UIM: Underinsured Motorist
LOR: Letter of Representation
(from an attorney)
NFIP: National Flood Insurance Program
Legal Terminology
​
LOA: Letter of Authorization
POA: Power of Attorney
ADR: Alternative Dispute Resolution
COC: Chain of Custody
SA: Settlement Agreement
DOE: Date of Examination
FCR: Full and Complete Release
SOE: Statement of Events
GSA: General Settlement Agreement
WOP: Without Prejudice
Vehicle Evaluation & Repairs
​
VIN: Vehicle Identification Number
OE: Original Equipment
A/M: After Market
R&I: Remove & Install
R&R: Remove and Replace
PDR: Paintless Dent Repair
RECON: Recondition
OEM: Original Equipment Manufacturer
TOC: Total Out-of-Pocket Costs
OVS: On-Vehicle Service
Cost & Market Value
​
KBB: Kelley Blue Book
NADA: National Automobile Dealers Association
MMR: Manheim Market Report
RTV: Retail Trade Value
CTV: Current Trade Value
RCV: Replacement Cost Value
RFB: Residual Fair Book Value
ATC: Actual Trade Condition
CP: Comparative Pricing
TAV: Trade Appraisal Value
Insurance Policies & Coverage
​
PD: Property Damage
BI: Bodily Injury
COL: Collision Coverage
COMP: Comprehensive Coverage
UMPD: Uninsured Motorist Property Damage
MPC: Medical Payment Coverage
TPL: Third Party Liability
EPLI: Employment Practices Liability Ins.
RC: Replacement Cost
APIP: Additional Personal Injury Protection
Claims & Disputes
​
APP: Appraisal Clause Process
UMC: Unresolved Motor Claim
CTP: Comparative Total Payout
UCC: Uniform Claims Committee
CIO: Claim Investigation Officer
CLI: Claim Litigation Index
LDC: Low Damage Claim
IDC: Internal Damage Claim
SD: Structural Damage
CLRP: Claim Loss Recovery Process
Court-Related Terms
​
ADR: Alternative Dispute Resolution
DOC: Deposition on Claim
FS: Full Settlement
HCC: High Court Case
LC: Litigation Counsel
ALR: Accident Liability Review
PRC: Personal Representation Claim​
AF: Affidavit Filed
MTD: Motion to Dismiss
ARB: Arbitration
Industry-Specific Acronyms
​
MDP: Minimum Damage Payment
TDD: Total Damage Declaration
IVC: Insured Vehicle Condition
PRM: Premium Rate Modification
GHR: General Hardship Report
DVCR: Diminished Vehicle Claim Report
ICR: Insurance Claim Record
ERV: Estimated Repair Value
CNR: Claim Not Reported
MT: Mechanical Total
General Automotive and Property Terms
​
EBD: Electronic Brake Distribution
TPMS: Tire Pressure Monitoring System
ABS: Anti-Lock Braking System
TPB: Third Party Billing
OVR: Overhead Value Report
RCM: Repair Cost Management
VLT: Vehicle Licensing Tax
CPI: Collision Process Integration
RSC: Road Surface Claim
VTI: Vehicle Title Information
Process Terms for Clients
​
TOS: Terms of Service
ETA: Estimated Time of Arrival
(for process updates)
AP: Authorization to Proceed
EDP: Estimated Damage Process
QP: Quality of Parts
TRF: Transfer Request Form
COT: Confirmation of Timeline
FFP: Finalized Funding Process
CRR: Claim Resolution Request
IPP: Insurance Payment Plan
Miscellaneous Acronyms
​
HR: High-Risk Policy
ESL: Excess Settlement Loss
CE: Claims Estimate
RE: Repair Estimate
OIC: Outstanding Insurance Claim
PCT: Post-Claim Timeline
EL: Event Log​
CAI: Claim Assignment Investigation
FVI: Final Vehicle Inspection
MA: Market Analysis