What is Vehicle Depreciation? Compensation Conditions and Calculation.

After a vehicle is damaged in an accident and subsequently repaired, the difference between its pre-accident (and post-accident/damage record) market value is called vehicle depreciation. Regardless of how well your vehicle is repaired, its damage history recorded in the Tramer system reduces its monetary value. In Turkish law, this difference is considered damage and is subject to compensation.

 

1. Vehicle Depreciation Claim Application Requirements

To be able to claim compensation for the decrease in the value of your vehicle, certain conditions must be met:

• Fault Status: You must not be 100% at fault in the accident. If you are 0% or 50% at fault, you may receive compensation proportional to the other party's fault.

• Statute of limitations: The application must be submitted within 2 years of the date of the accident.

• Nature of Damage: Damage to "replaceable" parts of the vehicle, such as plastic bumpers, headlights, wipers, and rims, is generally not included in the depreciation calculation. Damage to metal bodywork and chassis is the primary consideration.

• Mileage Limit: Mileage limits applied in the past have been relaxed by Constitutional Court decisions; however, lower mileage directly increases the amount of compensation.

 

2. How is the Diminution in Value Calculated?

Calculations are not made solely based on the amount of damage. The Insurance Arbitration Commission and the courts take the following criteria into account:

• The vehicle's make, model, and year of manufacture,

• Vehicle mileage (depreciation allowance),

• The vehicle's market desirability and resale value,

• The extent of the damage and which parts of the vehicle have been repaired,

• Whether the vehicle has been involved in any previous accidents.

 

3. From whom is the compensation collected?

Compensation for vehicle depreciation is claimed from the Compulsory Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance (Traffic Insurance) company of the other party involved in the accident. If the application to the insurance company is unsuccessful or insufficient payment is made, the process is pursued through the Insurance Arbitration Commission.

 

4. The Difference of Tanyeri Law & Consultancy

Insurance companies generally tend to minimize payments using mathematical formulas. At Tanyeri Law, with our 37 years of experience, we stand by our clients throughout this process. Our professional team of four lawyers analyzes accident reports, expert assessment reports, and current market data to manage a transparent process and ensure you receive the full compensation for the actual depreciation in your vehicle's value. Especially in applications before the Insurance Arbitration Commission, we defend your rights at the highest level with our academic vision.

 

Note: The calculation tool above provides an estimated value based on the data you enter and general market conditions. The exact compensation amount may vary depending on the type of parts repaired, details of workmanship, and current Supreme Court/Arbitration precedents. To avoid loss of rights and to achieve the highest possible compensation rate, we recommend seeking the support of a professional lawyer.