Tesla Case Study: Loss of Use Claim

When your car is declared a total loss, it feels like the insurance company has the final word. But most drivers don’t realize that the initial payout offer is often thousands less than what their vehicle was actually worth. In this post, we’ll show you how total loss claims really work — and how to avoid getting lowballed by insurance.

What Is a Total Loss Claim?

A total loss claim happens when your car is so damaged that the cost to repair it exceeds a certain percentage of its value (often 70–80%). In this case, the insurance company “totals” your vehicle and offers a payout based on what they think it was worth right before the accident. But their version of “value” is often lower than the true market price.

Why Insurance Offers Are Often Too Low

Insurance companies use internal systems and wholesale pricing to determine value — not what your car would actually sell for in your local market. They may also overlook recent upgrades, low mileage, or high demand. As a result, many payouts are significantly below fair market value. You have the right to challenge it.

How to Know If You’re Being Underpaid

Red flags include:

• Payout feels much lower than expected

• Value doesn’t reflect recent repairs, options, or condition

• You can’t replace your vehicle with the payout they offered

If it seems off, it probably is. That’s where a certified total loss appraisal comes in.

What a Certified Appraisal Can Do for You

A certified total loss appraisal gives you a professional, unbiased report of your vehicle’s actual pre-accident value. It uses real-time market data, vehicle specs, and condition details to fight for every dollar you’re owed. Insurance adjusters are more likely to reconsider when presented with this documentation.

5. How to Submit and Negotiate Your Claim

Steps to follow:

1. Request the insurer’s valuation report

2. Get a certified total loss appraisal (like from Prestige VS)

3. Submit your report along with your dispute

4. If needed, involve a lawyer or file a complaint with your state’s insurance department

Don’t settle just because it’s easier. Settling low costs you more in the long run.

Final Thoughts

If your car has been totaled, don’t assume the insurance company’s number is final. You may be owed significantly more. A total loss appraisal puts the power back in your hands — and can mean thousands of extra dollars in your settlement. Prestige VS helps Florida drivers get what they truly deserve.