A car accident or some kind of mechanical problem can render your vehicle inoperable. If you need a tow truck, you will want to call on an established towing company to get your car to a repair facility.
Even the safest and most experienced tow truck drivers have accidents sometimes. So, if your car suffered damaged brakes from a tow truck, you will want to ask the towing company to pay for your repairs. You may have to file a property damage claim against the towing service.
Gathering Supporting Evidence
Remember, accidents do happen. If you are having your vehicle towed, you should inspect it for damage. If it has been in an accident, and then the tow truck causes more damage, you may find yourself filing two separate property damage claims.
Take photos of your car before towing and document any damages. Try to have witness present to watch the car being loaded by the tow truck, and if possible, video record the tow truck loading your car.
Check your car for damages upon arrival and be sure to once again photograph your car. If you see any damage, or if you saw something go wrong during the towing process, such as a brake line being cut by a chain, you will need to notify the tow truck driver. The tow truck driver might admit fault and take responsibility. If that happens, your claim might be resolved much faster.
The Demand Letter to the Towing Company
The first step in getting a property damage claim underway is to send a demand letter to the towing company and to their insurance company. The letter should state the facts, such as where your vehicle was being picked up, where it was being towed, the date, time, and location of the incident. The damages your vehicle suffered, and why you believe the towing company is liable.
Also, indicate if there were witnesses and include witness statements and copies of photos that show your vehicle before and after towing. You will need a written repair estimate for the damages and you should include an itemized list of the damages you suffered and then a total for the amount you want to settle your claim. Always set the dollar amount a little higher, so you can negotiate a settlement.
Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyers
If your car has damaged brakes from a tow truck, you should talk with a personal injury attorney about pursuing a personal injury claim to recover compensation for your property damages. According to most auto repair sites, it could cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000 to repair your brakes depending on the make and model of your vehicle and the extent of your damages.
If the towing company was to blame, make them pay for the costs. Personal injury lawyers are not paid until your claim has been won because they work on a contingency fee basis. Get your Free Case Evaluation today!
