How to Sue a Moving Company for Damage to Property in Florida
Moving can be a monumental task. Relocating from one area to another and moving into a new house can be a very exciting but stressful time. Oftentimes, to help eliminate some of the stress, homeowners will hire movers who will pack up the items in your home and transport them to your new destination. But what happens when the moving company you entrust with your valuable items somehow damages them? Do you have any recourse? This blog will touch on what you may be able to do in that circumstance.
What should you look for when hiring a Florida moving company?
You always want to do your research before you select a moving company. You should do a thorough check on google and read the reviews. Visit the moving company’s website and read over their policies. If you seem satisfied, give them a call and speak with them about the amount of time they have been in business and what their damage policy contains. The items they will be transporting will likely be worth thousands of dollars and the last thing you want is to have it destroyed during the moving process.
How to document your items to prove damage.
You should always take photographs of the items that the moving company will be transporting. Photographs will show the condition of the items before transport and will help you prove that they were not damaged prior to the moving company taking possession. If you unpack your items in your new home and notice damage, take another photograph of the damage so that you have before and after photos.
What else should you do before you hire a moving company?
You should always read over the moving company’s contract in great detail before you sign it. Often times, the contract will be very detailed about what will happen in case any of your items are damaged. It may state that the moving company will reimburse you a certain amount per pound for any of the items damaged. If you do not see this contained in the contract, ask the moving company what their policy is, and make sure you get it in writing before signing anything. The last thing you want is to have your items damaged and there be no contract in writing concerning reimbursement.
Can you sue a moving company for the damage to your items in Florida?
The first thing you will want to do is see if you can reach a settlement with the moving company prior to going to court. Oftentimes, moving companies will work with you to reach a settlement and reimburse you for the items which were damaged. If you find that you cannot reach a settlement with the moving company without going to court, it may be wise to seek an attorney who can help you sue the moving company for the damages. You may be entitled to sue for the price of the items that were damaged and the cost of having to hire an attorney to pursue the case for you.
Contact the Lopez Law Group today!
The attorneys at the Lopez Law Group are experienced in handling claims against moving companies. If you hired a moving company and found that after the move items which they were transporting for you were damaged or destroyed, we may be able to assist. Our attorneys are standing by and are ready to talk to you about your claim. We can be reached at 727-933-0015. Our consultations will be able to let you know whether or not you have a valid claim. Contact us today!