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)?
3 Answers from Attorneys
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.
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
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.