Tesla Case Study: Loss of Use Claim

After an accident, most people only focus on getting their car fixed — but there’s a hidden side to your claim that insurance won’t explain. That’s where a car appraisal comes in. If your vehicle has lost value, you may be leaving money on the table. In this post, we’ll break down what a car appraisal is, how it works, and why it can be a powerful tool for protecting your financial loss.

1. What Is a Car Appraisal?

A car appraisal is a formal evaluation that determines the fair market value of your vehicle. In the context of accidents and insurance claims, an appraisal looks at your vehicle's value before the damage and compares it to its current value. The difference is often what you’re entitled to recover. Certified appraisers use real market data, vehicle history, condition reports, and accident records to deliver an accurate and legally credible number.

2. When Do You Need a Car Appraisal?

If you've been in a car accident, especially one that wasn't your fault, you might need an appraisal to claim what's known as "diminished value." You also may need an appraisal in total loss scenarios, or when your car was in the shop and you couldn’t use it (called "loss of use"). In these cases, an independent appraisal ensures you aren't underpaid or misled by the insurance company's internal valuation.

3. How Much Can It Recover?

A proper car appraisal can lead to thousands in recovered value. At Prestige VS, we've helped clients recover anywhere from $1,500 to over $12,000 depending on the vehicle type and the claim category. High-end or newer vehicles typically suffer more in market value post-accident, which increases your payout potential when documented properly.

4. Why Insurance Won’t Tell You About It

Insurance companies are required to pay fair compensation, but they’re not required to educate you about how to get it. Many drivers never hear the term "diminished value" or "loss of use" because it’s not in the insurer’s best interest to mention it. That’s why an independent, third-party appraisal is so valuable — it puts the power back in your hands.

5. Why Certified Appraisals Matter

Not all reports are equal. A certified appraisal from an experienced provider like Prestige VS carries legal weight, is accepted by attorneys and insurance adjusters, and can often tip the scales in a negotiation. Without certification, your valuation may be dismissed or ignored. With it, you’re taken seriously.