In what scenario might an appraiser be called to testify?

An appraiser may be called to testify primarily in situations where a claim reaches arbitration or legal proceedings. This is because an appraiser's role involves providing a professional assessment of vehicle damage and value, which can become critical evidence in disputes related to insurance claims, auto accidents, or other legal contexts.

In legal matters, the appraiser's expertise is valuable as they can provide objective testimony about the condition of the vehicle, the extent of damages, and applicable repair costs. This testimony can help to clarify complex details for judges, juries, or arbitration panels, ensuring that decisions are made based on accurate and reliable evaluations.

In contrast, scenarios such as non-disputed claims, casual discussions about vehicle value, or when clients merely request a verbal estimate do not typically lead to situations where formal testimony is needed. These scenarios generally do not involve conflict or require the validation of the appraiser's work in a legal framework, making them less relevant for situations requiring expert testimony.