Question 1

Accident occurred – what should I do first?

Accepted Answer

Secure the accident site, document everything with photos (vehicles, position, damage, surroundings), and exchange details. Then contact an independent vehicle assessor as soon as possible so that evidence can be secured and claims properly documented. For quick processing, you can report the damage directly online or make an inquiry by phone/WhatsApp.

Question 2

Do I have to accept the appraiser appointed by the opposing insurance company?

Accepted Answer

In the event of an accident that was not your fault, you can usually choose an independent expert yourself. This often makes sense because it ensures that all damage items are fully recorded (e.g., depreciation, loss of use, residual value). You can also find practical guidance on this in the blog.

Question 3

Appraisal or cost estimate – which is better?

Accepted Answer

A cost estimate often primarily covers repair costs. An expert opinion also documents relevant items such as depreciation, loss of use, and replacement/residual value, and provides reliable photographic documentation. In cases of uncertainty (amount of damage/hidden damage), an expert opinion is usually the more robust solution.

Question 4

How much does a vehicle appraisal cost?

Accepted Answer

In the event of an accident through no fault of your own (liability claim), you will generally not incur any costs, as the opposing insurance company will usually cover the fees. Different rules apply to comprehensive insurance claims (your own insurance) – in this case, we will clarify in advance and transparently whether and to what extent costs will be incurred.

Question 5

How quickly can I get an appointment—and when will the report be ready?

Accepted Answer

Depending on workload, the inspection can be carried out at short notice, often very quickly. Completion depends on the extent of the damage and the market data required; in many cases, the report is available shortly after the inspection. (Important: The earlier the inspection takes place, the less discussion there will be later.)

Question 6

Are you coming to my place?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I offer on-site service in Hamburg and the surrounding area, as well as viewings at the workshop or at the location in Lurup. Appointments can be easily arranged by phone or WhatsApp.

Question 7

Do I have to be present during the assessment?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. The important thing is that the vehicle is accessible (e.g., at home, in the workshop, or in the yard). If you cannot be there in person, we will organize coordination with the workshop/site manager—quickly and easily.

Question 8

What documents do you need for the appraisal?

Accepted Answer

As a rule: registration certificate part I (vehicle registration document), accident details (date/location, other party's details), police report if applicable, photos and—if available—towing/repair shop documents. If something is missing, it is usually not critical—the important thing is that the damage is recorded promptly.

Question 9

What is minor damage – and what do I need to bear in mind?

Accepted Answer

“Minor damage” describes small damage for which a cost estimate is often sufficient. Hidden damage (e.g., behind bumpers/carriers) is critical. If you send us photos or give us a quick call, we can quickly assess whether an expert opinion is necessary.

Question 10

What is a total economic loss?

Accepted Answer

A vehicle is considered a total economic loss when repairing it is not economically viable because the repair costs are disproportionate to the value of the vehicle. In such cases, the replacement value minus the residual value is often used for settlement purposes. Details and examples can also be found in your guide to total loss.

Question 11

What do replacement value and residual value mean?

Accepted Answer

The replacement value is the amount required for a comparable vehicle on the regional market. The residual value is the value of the damaged vehicle in its current condition. Both values influence the settlement in the event of a total loss and must be derived in a plausible and verifiable manner.

Question 12

What is commercial impairment?

Accepted Answer

Even after professional repairs, an accident-damaged vehicle may be worth less on the market—this is known as commercial depreciation. It depends on factors such as the extent of the damage, age, mileage, and vehicle class, and should be clearly stated in the expert opinion.

Question 13

Am I entitled to a rental car or loss of use compensation in the event of an accident?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the case, either a rental car or compensation for loss of use may be considered. It is important to provide evidence of the repair time/downtime. The issue is classified clearly, comprehensibly, and based on the circumstances.

Question 14

Liability vs. comprehensive insurance claims – what is the difference?

Accepted Answer

Liability: The other party involved in the accident or their insurance company will settle the claim. Comprehensive insurance: Your own insurance company will settle the claim in accordance with the contract (excess, specifications, repair shop restrictions, etc.). The procedure and economic assessment differ—so it is worth taking a moment to clarify this in advance.

Question 15

What happens if I disagree with a vehicle appraisal?

Accepted Answer

If there are any queries, reductions, or discrepancies, we will examine the objections from a technical perspective and, if necessary, provide a comprehensible statement on the calculation of damages. The aim is to produce complete, verifiable documentation that strengthens your position vis-à-vis the insurance company. Send us the reduction/correspondence and we will tell you directly what steps are advisable.

Question 16

What is a vehicle appraisal – what is it needed for?

Accepted Answer

A vehicle appraisal documents the accident damage in a professional and legally compliant manner—including repair costs, depreciation, loss of use, and, if applicable, replacement/residual value. It forms the basis for ensuring that your claims against the insurance company are settled in full. In the event of an accident through no fault of your own, an independent appraisal is usually the safest way to avoid reductions.

Question 17

Do I have to accept the appraiser from the opposing insurance company in a no-fault accident?

Accepted Answer

No, in a no-fault accident you do not have to accept the vehicle appraiser of the opposing liability insurance. You have the right to appoint an independent vehicle appraiser of your choice. We strongly recommend that you exercise this right, as insurance appraisers often act in the interest of the paying insurance company and try to calculate the damage to the vehicle as low as possible. It is advisable to consult an independent and competent expert like Kfz-Gutachter Alkan. Only in this way can you ensure that the actual extent of damage, depreciation, and all your claims are precisely and fully taken into account in the damage report. The costs for the appraiser are usually covered by the opposing insurance company in the event of a no-fault accident.

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