Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

moving company truck burned w/ all my belongings

I hired a moving company to move belonging from CA to OH. On way, truck burned down destroying contents. They refused to give any information, including incident location, for more than a week after agreed delivery date, and then only minimal, which prevented recovery of some items. I believe severe neglegance caused the fire.

I signed a limited liability waiver on the contract, however I was pressured into it and assured 'they would take good care of my stuff' and promised to deliver it on time. Their insurance offered ~$1000, but value is over $20,000.

Can I still sue them? Can I get additional damages for stress and loss of personally valuable items (family heirlooms)?


Asked on 8/29/03, 5:01 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Armen Tashjian Law Offices of Armen M. Tashjian

Re: moving company truck burned w/ all my belongings

First, a careful reviwe of the contract you signed is required.

Second, check with the truck's insurance company as you might qualify as a third party beneficiary thereof.

Third, hire a lawyer. They shouldn't get off the hook that easily just because you signed a piece of paper. Good luck.

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Answered on 8/29/03, 7:35 pm
Donald Holben Donald R. Holben & Associates, APC

Re: moving company truck burned w/ all my belongings

I believe there are too many questions that must be answered before I can properly answer your question. Please call to discuss. 800-685-6950

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Answered on 9/02/03, 12:01 pm
Robert F. Cohen Law Office of Robert F. Cohen

Re: moving company truck burned w/ all my belongings

Unfortunately, the tariffs only provide for limited recovery for property damaged or destroyed in a move, unless you purchased special insurance for the move. You may check with the Interstate Commerce Commission and State of CA web sites for further information on this nasty little secret.

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Answered on 8/29/03, 5:36 pm


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