How DVAC Helped Tennessee Driver Recover Diminished Value on a 2024 Chevrolet Colorado
Introduction:
After an accident, the road to recovery isn’t just physical — it’s financial too. For many drivers, especially in states like Tennessee with specific total loss laws, the insurance company’s payout may not reflect a vehicle’s true market value. That’s where DVAC steps in.
In this case study, we share how DVAC helped the owner of a 2024 Chevrolet Colorado in Tennessee secure an accurate, data-driven diminished value settlement after a severe accident and costly repairs.
Vehicle Overview
Make/Model: 2024 Chevrolet Colorado
Location: Tennessee
Accident Type: Multi-point collision (front, side, and rear impact)
Mileage at time of accident: 10,241 miles
Repair Cost: $12,093.08
Diminished Value Status: Appraised by DVAC
Appraised Diminished Value Amount: $6,825
This Chevrolet Colorado was a low-mileage, single-owner truck equipped with key upgrades like a convenience package, running boards, remote start, and trailer hitch. While fully restored after the accident, the vehicle’s CARFAX history now reflects severe damage—reducing its market appeal and value. DVAC was brought in to provide a professional diminished value appraisal and help the owner recover their post-repair loss.
The Incident: A Severe Collision and a $12K Repair Bill
In April 2025, a 2024 Chevy Colorado Work Truck collided with another vehicle, sustaining extensive damage to the front, sides, and rear. The impact was severe, leaving the truck disabled and requiring it to be towed from the scene.
Following the accident, a certified collision repair facility completed the necessary work, issuing a final repair bill of $12,093.30. This total included multiple supplements and OEM part replacements for critical components such as body panels, trim, lights, and suspension. Although the repairs were performed to professional standards, the truck’s market value still declined significantly due to the now-documented accident history.
Why Diminished Value Still Matters After Repairs
Even after completing all repairs, CARFAX history permanently records the accident and its severity, which immediately makes the vehicle less appealing to potential buyers. As a result, this lasting “stigma” reduces the vehicle’s market value—a financial loss known as diminished value.
This impact is especially significant for newer vehicles like this truck, which had only 10,241 miles at the time of the accident. Unfortunately, most insurance companies fail to include diminished value in their initial settlements. Consequently, unless vehicle owners take proactive steps to file a claim, they often end up absorbing the loss themselves.
How DVAC Delivered an Accurate, Fair Appraisal
The vehicle owner retained DVAC to conduct a third-party diminished value appraisal, ensuring the insurance payout reflected the vehicle’s true post-accident worth. Here’s what our appraisal included:
Comprehensive repair documentation review
Market valuation using J.D. Power, Black Book, Kelley Blue Book, and MMR sources
VIN-specific analysis of sales trends for comparable trucks in the region
Inclusion of CARFAX Market Reports and vehicle history evaluation
Based on this objective analysis, DVAC provided a detailed report substantiating the diminished value claim, empowering the owner to challenge any lowball offers confidently.
Why Independent Appraisals Are Critical in Tennessee
Tennessee drivers are not always aware they can challenge the insurance company’s post-accident valuation. While Tennessee doesn’t have specific diminished value laws on the books, insurance case law and policy language often leave room for diminished value recovery — especially when the loss is clearly documented and presented by a licensed professional. Without a third-party appraisal like DVAC’s, many vehicle owners accept far less than they’re owed.
Conclusion: Protect Your Investment After an Accident
In this case, DVAC helped a Tennessee driver protect the value of a nearly new Chevy truck after an accident that left a lasting impact on its resale value. Having this accident in it’s repair history, we found that the fair market value of this vehicle is now appraised at $27,425. Leaving the appraised diminished value amount to be $6,825. Our licensed, data-backed appraisals ensure you receive the compensation you deserve — not just what the insurer offers. If your vehicle has been declared a total loss or repaired after an accident in Tennessee, don’t leave money on the table.
Contact DVAC today for a professional diminished value appraisal and protect your financial future.
