Appraisal or repair estimate?
A repair estimate focuses on expected repair costs. A damage report may also document vehicle condition, the repair method, values and possible diminished value. Not every incident needs this scope: an estimate and photographs may suffice for minor, straightforward damage.
The visible size of the damage alone is not conclusive. Describe the impact, vehicle and any unusual findings. An initial view based on photographs cannot replace a necessary physical inspection.
Third-party liability and own insurance differ
A claim against the responsible driver’s liability insurer differs from a claim under your own vehicle insurance. For the latter, your policy terms apply; discuss commissioning an expert with your insurer beforehand.
It would be incorrect to promise that every appraisal is free. Necessity, liability and any shared responsibility affect reimbursement. Obtain individual advice on unresolved legal questions before commissioning.
Information for your first enquiry
A short factual account is more useful than a guess about repair costs. Where was the impact? Which areas are visibly affected? Have you noticed warning messages, leaking fluids or changes while driving? Describe your observations without moving the vehicle again to test it.
- Vehicle type, registration document and mileage
- Incident date, short description and available photographs
- Vehicle location and any concerns about safe driving
- Claim reference and insurance details where available
- Known previous damage and repairs already arranged
Coordinate the inspection before evidence is lost
Keep the original photographs and records. Wider views show where damage is located on the vehicle; close-ups add detail. Note when the pictures were taken and any work carried out since. Never put yourself in danger to take photographs or interfere with damaged components.
Tell us if a workshop or recovery service is already involved. Safety comes first; necessary recovery must not be delayed for an appraisal. Where possible, document changes and removed parts clearly.
Heinrich Hehr arranges on-site appointments in Ludwigsau, Bad Hersfeld, Bebra, Rotenburg an der Fulda and surrounding communities. We explain the technical scope and any further information needed.
Understanding the values in a damage report
Replacement value is the cost of a comparable vehicle before the accident. Residual value is the value of the damaged vehicle. Diminished value is a possible loss in value remaining after proper repair; it does not apply automatically to every incident.
What does an economic total loss mean?
This concerns whether repair is economical, not necessarily whether it is technically possible. Vehicle values and repair costs are central to settlement. Whether repair remains an option, and under which conditions, requires individual clarification. Obtain legal advice before repairing or selling.
ADAC – Claims after a road accident (German)
Further guidance (German): ADAC – What to do after an accident
General guidance for road accidents in Germany, not individual legal advice. For injuries or immediate danger, call 112. Legal and insurance questions depend on the individual circumstances.
