In 2026, two regulations were introduced that directly affect diminished value procedures in compulsory traffic insurance. This article summarises what the changes brought and how they affect your rights.
What changed?
Amendment to the General Conditions. By the amendment published in the Official Gazette dated 12.06.2026 and numbered 33278, which entered into force on 1 July 2026, the General Conditions of Compulsory Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance were reorganised. The most important consequence of the amendment is that a person who claims for vehicle damage is deemed also to have claimed diminished value. Previously, a separate application had to be made for diminished value.
Loss adjuster appointment system. The Regulation on the Appointment of Insurance Loss Adjusters, published in the Official Gazette dated 12.02.2026 and numbered 33166, and SEDDK's implementing circular provide for loss adjusters to be appointed to damage files through a central system. The loss adjuster appointed in this system also assesses diminished value.
What does this mean in practice?
• If you have made a damage claim, you do not need to submit a separate petition for diminished value.
• The insurer assesses and pays diminished value together with the damage payment.
• The loss adjuster is expected to assess whether diminished value has arisen and its amount.
Have your rights been restricted?
No. The amount determined by the loss adjuster does not limit the injured party's actual loss. If you consider that the diminished value paid falls below the actual loss, you may apply in writing to the insurer under Article 97 of the Highway Traffic Law; if your claim is not met within 15 days of the application, you may apply to the Insurance Arbitration Commission or file a lawsuit.
Point to note
Since diminished value is now paid together with the damage, the importance of releases and settlement forms signed at the payment stage has increased. Documents signed without checking the amount paid may later become a matter of dispute in a claim for the balance.
You can use the free Kaza Dosyam tool to keep your accident information in an organised file: kazadosyam.katarhukuk.com
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Each specific case must be assessed in its own circumstances. Updated: 10 October 2026
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