QuestionQUESTION: I had my new vehicle front bumper replaced after accident. The Vehicle has only 5000 miles.
1) Is the front bumper damage (replacement) structural damage?
2) If the vehicle has no structural damage but a repair record, will it be entitled to the diminished value claim?
3) If the insurance refused to pay the diminished value claim, what options does the insured have?
ANSWER: Hi Luo,
A bumper is not a structural component. There will be no diminished value due to replacement of the bumper. You should keep the repair bill in the glove box so in the future if it ever comes up you can show the minimal nature of the damage.
I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh
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QUESTION: Hi, you said, “There will be no diminished value due to replacement of the bumper.” May I ask you a follow up question? If you see two identical vehicles but one has ever had a bumper replaced due to an acident and you has known it, which vehicle you would prefer? Are you willing to pay two vehicles the same price and why?
ANSWER: Hi Luo,
I understand your question, however, there is no reason to not select a vehicle that has had the bumper replaced. The bumper cover is just a plastic part. The bumper is meant to take a bump.
You may feel differently, but it will be very difficult to make a claim for diminished value as a result of bumper replacement. Generally the must be replacement or repairs to a structural component.
I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh
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QUESTION: Thank you for your answer. If I can get an expert report about the diminution of value in the replacement of new vehicle’s bumper due to an accident, will the insurance likely pay the diminished value claim? In addition, what are the options for the policyholder if the claimant does not agree with his own insurance claims rep?
AnswerHi Luo,
The insurance company will likely not pay anything for diminished value due to a bumper replacement. You should not waist your money on a report.
If you are dealing with your own insurance company and there is a dispute, you can file a formal complaint with your state insurance commissioners office. If you are in dispute with somine elses insurance company then the only thing you can do is to file a law suit against the at-fault person.
I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh
