Backing into a garage door can be a frustrating and unexpected situation, but it’s important to know what to do in this scenario to prevent further damage and ensure everyone’s safety. Fortunately, you can take a few simple steps to address the situation and minimize the accident’s impact.
By following these steps, you can quickly resolve the issue and get your garage door and vehicle back in order.
COMMON ISSUES CAUSED BY BACKING INTO A GARAGE DOOR
Tens of thousands of accidents occur in parking lots and garages annually. Occasionally, this leads to minor or major accidents. Here are some common issues caused by backing into your garage door and parking in your garage incorrectly:
- Scratches and dents: One of the most common issues caused by backing into your garage incorrectly is scratches and dents on your car’s body. These issues can occur if you misjudge the distance between your vehicle and the garage walls.
- Damage to garage doors and walls: Backing into your garage without paying attention can also cause damage to your garage doors and walls.
- Damage to car’s headlights and taillights: Headlights and taillights are more fragile than the metal of your car. In a collision with your garage door, they’ll likely break first.
- Mechanical issues: Accidentally backing into your garage door can also cause mechanical problems in your vehicle. Damaged parts include transmission or suspension systems and damage to your tires.
- Damaged garage door track: The jolt of your car can cause the garage door to misalign or damage the track. A garage door professional can assess the situation and fix it safely.
- Broken panels: If you reverse into your garage door, your car could damage the sectional panels. A professional can replace the garage door panels depending on the extent of the damage.
You can lower your risk of accidents by taking your time when backing into your garage. Always ensure your garage door is fully open before parking inside your garage or pulling out of it. Make sure to correctly judge the distance between your vehicle and the walls and park your car in the right gear. By following these precautions, you can avoid causing any damage or safety hazards when backing into your garage.
FAQS ABOUT FIXING A DAMAGED GARAGE DOOR
If you have a damaged garage door, getting it fixed as soon as possible is essential to ensure your safety and home security. Here are some frequently asked questions about fixing a damaged garage door:
If you reverse your car into your garage door, it’s best to contact a professional. A professional can assess the damage and determine whether you need repairs. If your door has a dent in it, you could need a total garage door replacement, depending on the extent of the damage.
The time it takes to repair a garage door will depend on the damage’s extent and the required parts’ availability. A professional can repair a garage door within a few hours to a full day if parts are available.
While many homeowners’ insurance companies will cover the damage to your garage door, it’s best to contact your provider directly and ask about your individual policy. They may ask for photos and quotations on the damage.
Again, it depends on the extent of the damage. If the damage is extensive, installing a new garage door might be better. A professional will be able to advise you on the best course of action.
IMPORTANCE OF SEEKING PROFESSIONAL GARAGE DOOR SERVICES
Whenever your garage door becomes damaged, it’s essential to seek the help of a professional. Attempting to fix the problem can worsen the situation, resulting in more expensive repairs. It can also be highly dangerous to attempt to repair your garage door by yourself.
A professional garage door repair company has the knowledge, tools and experience to safely and effectively repair any damage caused by backing into your garage door. They can also provide valuable advice on preventing similar accidents in the future.