Diminished value
Examine how an accident and repair history may affect the vehicle’s market value.
About diminished valueFor attorneys, paralegals & law offices
Professional appraisals.
Prompt, personal service.
I help attorneys and paralegals get clear, professionally written vehicle appraisals and keep the property-damage work moving.
I’m Eric Ryckman. My work draws on hands-on collision repair, 13 years at GEICO and my time as Tesla’s Senior Program Manager of Collision Estimatics.
Timely, useful documentation
Move the vehicle claim forward.
I aim to have diminished-value reports available shortly after repairs are complete and I have the documentation needed to evaluate the loss. Tell me about any deadline so I can confirm what is practical for the assignment.
I understand that clients may be under financial pressure. Timely property-damage documentation can support earlier resolution of that part of the claim while your team continues to develop the bodily-injury case.
Total loss valuations
Review the vehicle details, comparison vehicles and adjustments behind a disputed value.
About total loss appraisalsPost-repair inspections
Document repair concerns and identify questions that may need further technical evaluation.
About repair inspectionsA look at the work
Sample appraisal report
Working with your office
Your preferred point of contact.
If your law office retains me, I can deliver the report only to your office. If your practice prefers, I’m also happy to work directly with the vehicle owner. We’ll agree on contact and delivery arrangements at the outset.
Describe the assignment
Explain the value dispute or repair concern, the vehicle’s location and the decision your client faces.
Share the useful records
Send the available documents and let me know what is still outstanding. I can identify what else is needed for the appraisal.
Confirm the practical details
Agree on the scope, timing, fee and billing arrangement before proceeding, along with who should receive the report.
Useful records
Give the appraisal
a clear starting point.
- VIN, mileage, trim and relevant vehicle options
- Date of loss and a brief account of the dispute
- The insurer’s valuation, offer and written explanation
- Damage photographs, estimates and final repair invoices
- Available scan, calibration and measurement records
- Relevant correspondence and known deadlines
Start with the records you have. Share documents you are authorized to provide, and ask about the appropriate way to send the file.
Independent judgment
An opinion I can explain.
My reports connect the vehicle facts, research and methodology to the conclusion. I explain the reasoning in professional, readable language and identify important limitations. The evidence guides the opinion.
Experience in Maryland courts
I have appeared as an expert witness in Maryland courts. I explain and defend my appraisal methodology, including the evidence behind my conclusions.
If a matter may require testimony, let’s discuss the scope, dates and arrangements for that case.
More about my experience and approachStart a conversation
Tell me what your client needs.
A clear question is the best place to begin.