If you have an antique car, you have put a lot of time, money, and effort into it. You want to make sure it safely reaches its destination. Odds are that you will need to have it towed sometime.
Even the most dedicated and professional towing services can have accidents, or the two truck drivers could make mistakes. Equipment can also malfunction during the towing process. If you have a damaged antique car from a tow truck, you will want to hold the towing company liable for the damages through a property damage claim.
Gathering Supporting Evidence
Hauling an antique vehicle can be stressful. If you are having your antique car towed, you should be sure to thoroughly inspect your vehicle before towing. Take photos of it from all angles, both inside and outside.
Make sure you have witnesses and be sure that all mechanical or electrical problems are noted. It is wise to protect yourself by videoing the car before it is loaded on the tow truck then recording the vehicle being loaded.
You should also record the antique car being unloaded and get photos of the interior and exterior of the vehicle after it reaches its destination. Be sure to document any damages upon arrival – and you should immediately notify the tow truck driver of these damages. If the tow truck driver acknowledges the damage to your antique car is their fault, then resolving liability and getting the damages covered shouldn’t be too difficult.
The Demand Letter to the Towing Company
If you have a damaged antique car from a tow truck, the repairs can be costly. It can be difficult to find replacement parts for antique vehicles, and when you do, the parts can be very expensive. You will need to send the towing company a demand letter, which will let them know of your intent to file a claim.
Your personal injury attorney will send this letter for you. You will need to include copies of supporting evidence, which will make your case stronger and will increase the likelihood of them being willing to negotiate a settlement.
State the facts – indicating the date, time, and location of the incident. Note where your car was being picked up and where they were hauling it. Make note of any damage and include an itemized list of the damages and the costs to fix them. Include photos of the vehicle before and after towing and be sure to indicate if you have the incident on video. Specify the amount you want to be compensated for damages, but always leave room for negotiations.
Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have a damaged antique car from a tow truck, you should talk with a personal injury attorney. You want to make sure your car is fixed back properly, so talk to a lawyer about the best way to pursue a claim against the towing company. Your lawyer will review your evidence and help you gather more supporting documentation. Get your Free Case Evaluation today.