Last updated: August 18, 2025

Diminished Value & Total Loss Auto Appraisals in Louisiana: What You Need to Know

Louisiana drivers can recover losses for both diminished value (DV) and fair market value (FMV) claims after a car accident. Whether your vehicle was repaired or declared a total loss, state law allows you to pursue compensation for its true pre-accident value. This page explains how Louisiana diminished value appraisals and total loss auto appraisals work, what laws apply, key filing steps, and how a professional SnapClaim report can help you negotiate a fair insurance settlement. For city-specific information, visit our Louisiana Diminished Value Appraisal page.

Does Louisiana Allow Diminished Value and Total Loss Claims?

Diminished Value (DV)

Yes. Louisiana recognizes diminished value claims when supported by credible market evidence. If your car was repaired after an accident and you were not at fault, you may be entitled to compensation for the reduction in your vehicle’s resale value. Louisiana law permits recovery of post-repair loss in value under general property damage rules, provided you can prove diminished market worth with an accurate appraisal.

Fair Market Value / Total Loss (FMV)

Yes. When repair costs exceed your car’s actual cash value, Louisiana insurers must pay based on its fair market value before the crash. If the insurer’s offer seems too low, you can request an independent Fair Market Value Appraisal using verified Louisiana market data and dealer quotes.

Key Louisiana Laws & Regulations

• DV recognition: Supported by Louisiana Civil Code Article 2315 — compensation allowed for proven property loss.
• FMV requirement: Louisiana Administrative Code Title 37, Part XIII — insurers must use comparable vehicles to determine actual cash value.
• Statute of limitations: La. Civ. Code Art. 3492 — 1 year from the date of the accident for property damage claims.
• Comparative negligence: Louisiana follows a pure comparative fault system — recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
• Small claims: Louisiana Justice of the Peace Courts handle claims up to $5,000 (Louisiana Judicial System).
• Insurance complaints: File with the Louisiana Department of Insurance.

What You Should Document

• Accident or police report: Obtain from the Louisiana State Police or local parish law enforcement.
• Repair invoices and supplements: Include all parts lists, calibration data, and photos.
• Vehicle photos: Before and after repairs, showing VIN and odometer.
• Comparable sales data: Louisiana dealership and private listings from your area (New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, etc.).
• Certified Diminished Value or FMV Appraisal from SnapClaim.

Step-by-Step Claim Process

1. Confirm your claim type: Diminished Value (DV) for repaired vehicles or Fair Market Value (FMV) for total loss.
2. Gather documentation: Collect your police report, repair invoices, and vehicle photos.
3. Order a professional appraisal: SnapClaim reports use verified Louisiana comparables and USPAP-compliant valuation methods.
4. Submit a demand letter: Include your appraisal and cite Louisiana Civil Code Article 2315 to support your claim.
5. Negotiate or escalate: If the insurer undervalues your claim, use your report to pursue arbitration or file in small claims court.

Why a Professional Louisiana Auto Appraisal Matters

Insurers often rely on outdated or generic valuation databases. A SnapClaim Diminished Value Appraisal or Fair Market Value Appraisal uses verified Louisiana market data, local comparables, and certified methods accepted by courts and insurers. Every report is insurer-ready, court-defensible, and backed by our Money-Back Guarantee.

Ready to Claim Your Vehicle’s True Value?

Start with a free estimate — no credit card required. SnapClaim is Louisiana’s trusted auto appraisal company for diminished value and total loss claims — combining certified appraisers, real-time market data, and AI-driven valuation tools to help you secure the settlement you deserve. Get My Free Estimate →

Learn More About Louisiana Diminished Value Claims

For more details on eligibility, local laws, and sample reports, visit our Louisiana Diminished Value page to explore regional guides and city-specific resources. For other states, visit Diminished Value State Laws.