Auto Insurance Claims: Car damage is more than value, 1996 chevy lumina, chevy lumina

Question
I was sued in small claims court and was found 75% at fault for an accident. The other guy was found 25% at fault. I appealed it and was found 70% at fault and the other guy was found 30% at fault on the appeal. I am in California. His car is a 1996 Chevy Lumina with 151,000 miles on it and previous damage to the rear right quarter panel, side swipe damage, minor dent with several( 8-10) scrapes 20-24" in length.Interior of car needs re-conditioning also. The KBB value on his car is $1400.00 for fair condition. The selling price from several car lots is between $1,000.00 and $1,900.00. He sued me for $5,000.00. He had estimates for $4,200.00 and $3,800.00.
The judge awarded him damages at ($3,947.22 less 30%)total of $2,763.05 plus cost $115.00. What I need to know is the point of California law that limits compensation for damages to vehicle at the value of the vehicle 1 minute before the accident. He was awarded more money than the vehicle is worth. I need to know the statuate that limits the compensation to what the vehicle is worth, so that I can appeal the judgement on a point of law. I know that in California you can't be awarded more than the vehicles value. Can you help me?

Answer
Hi Ellen,

Unfortunately, I can not answer this question. I am not an attorney not am I familiar with specific California laws. You will ned to consult with an attorney in california who can research the speific code you are looking for.

I sorry I could not be of more help.

Richard Hixenbaugh