A Total Loss in Tennessee can create serious financial stress when an insurance company determines a vehicle is no longer economical to repair. That was the situation for the owner of a 2013 Honda Accord after damage resulted in a total loss determination. Although the vehicle had high mileage, it also had an extensive service history and strong market demand. To ensure the settlement reflected true market value rather than automated estimates, the owner retained DVAC for an independent total loss appraisal.
Vehicle Overview
Make/Model: 2013 Honda Accord EX-L
Location: Tennessee
Pre-Accident Mileage: Approximately 209,000 miles
Total Loss Settlement Offer: Under review
DVAC Appraised Value: Independently determined using market data
Why Total Loss Claims Are Often Undervalued
Insurance carriers often rely on valuation software that emphasizes mileage while minimizing condition, service history, and regional market demand. In total loss cases involving older vehicles, this approach frequently produces settlement offers that do not reflect what similar vehicles actually sell for.
In this Honda Accord total loss case, the vehicle showed consistent maintenance records spanning more than a decade. However, those factors rarely receive full consideration in initial insurance valuations. As a result, policyholders may face settlement offers that fall short of fair market value in Tennessee.
Real Market Data vs. Insurance Estimates
DVAC’s appraisal for this Honda Accord relied on multiple authoritative data sources, including regional sales data, auction results, and pricing platforms such as J.D. Power, Black Book, KBB, MMR, and vAuto. Rather than relying on a single automated estimate, DVAC analyzed how comparable Honda Accords with similar mileage performed in the Southeastern market.
Additionally, DVAC reviewed retail, trade-in, and auction pricing ranges to establish a defensible market value. This data-driven approach provides a more accurate picture of what the vehicle was worth immediately before the loss.
Understanding CARFAX in a Total Loss Settlement
CARFAX plays a role in total loss valuations by documenting ownership history, service records, and reported damage. In this case, the CARFAX report reflected long-term ownership, regular maintenance, and a recent damage entry. However, CARFAX does not determine a vehicle’s actual market value.
Insurance companies sometimes reference CARFAX-based values to support lower settlement offers. However, CARFAX values rely only on reported history and do not account for current regional market behavior. DVAC uses CARFAX as one component of the analysis while relying on broader market data to establish true value.
How DVAC Helps Tennessee Vehicle Owners Fight for Fair Value
DVAC provides independent, third-party total loss appraisals designed to stand up to insurance scrutiny. For this Total Loss in Tennessee case, DVAC prepared a detailed report that explained valuation methodology, supporting data, and market conclusions in clear terms.
This documentation gives policyholders leverage during settlement negotiations and supports the appraisal clause process when disputes arise. Instead of accepting an insurer’s internal estimate, vehicle owners gain an objective valuation backed by recognized industry standards.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Rights After a Total Loss in Tennessee
This Total Loss in Tennessee case involving a 2013 Honda Accord highlights why professional appraisals matter, even for high-mileage vehicles. Market value depends on more than age and mileage alone.
If your vehicle has been declared a total loss and you question the insurance company’s valuation, DVAC can help. Contact DVAC today for a fast, accurate, and data-backed total loss appraisal that supports a fair settlement and protects your financial interests.
