laptops and any valuables which get checked are considered limited liability items.... in other words, no liability, unfortunately, from being "lost".

I do understand airlines have been held responsible - on rare ocassions - in the past with respect to "stolen" items as that falls more under a negligence category --- BUT, you'll probably spend more money trying to recover it than what it is worth. The basis being they had a duty of care to deliver it to final destination (even if limited liability item), they had a duty to provide security without luggage being "stolen", it was stolen, duty is breached.. If it was damged in the regular course of handling, then the limited liability is there to protect the airline. That is my take on things:

I once had problems shipping electronics. My package arrived via checked luggage, but severely damaged with tire trucks and all on the box. I sued the airline claiming negligence in small claims and recovered on that basis.

It would seem to me a neglegence claim could be made --- no, I am not an attorney --- this is just in my personal option. Your mileage may vary, of course.

That said, never, ever, ever, check a laptop. I wish you the best of luck! Welcome to FT as well!