Backing into a garage door can be frustrating and unexpected, but knowing how to react in such a situation is essential to prevent further damage and ensure everyone’s safety. Fortunately, you can follow several simple steps to address the accident and minimize its impact.
Follow these steps to quickly resolve the issue and get your car and garage door back in order:
1. Turn off the engine and ensure that everyone is safe.
Once you’ve backed your vehicle into your garage door, put the car in park and engage the emergency brake. If necessary, Turn off the headlights, close all windows, and turn off the engine to prevent accidental acceleration or damage. Ensure everyone inside the car is safe.
2. Check for any damage.
After shutting off the engine and ensuring everyone is OK, get out of your car and inspect it for any signs of damage that may have occurred. Look for dents, scratches, or any other issues that require attention. Take photos of the damage. Then, inspect the garage door for any broken panels, damage to the springs, or further damage. Note the damage so that a professional can assess it correctly.
3. Check for any leaks.
Take a quick look underneath the car for any signs of leaks, including oil, coolant, or transmission fluid. If you notice any leaks, have them addressed by a mechanic as soon as possible.
4. Call a professional.
If your car has any damage, contact your car insurance provider immediately. Note that because you caused the damage, it’s unlikely that your insurance will cover it, but you may want to contact them anyway. However, your homeowners’ insurance might cover the damage to your garage door, so get that too. From there, you’ll know whether you must contact a mechanic to tow your car or assess the damage. You should also contact a garage door repair company to ensure your door is repaired as quickly as possible.
Common Issues Caused by Backing into a Garage Door
Thousands of accidents occur in parking lots and garages annually, leading to minor or major accidents. Here are some common issues caused by backing into your garage door and parking incorrectly:
Scratches and dents: If you misjudge the distance between your vehicle and the garage walls, scratches and dents on your car’s body can occur.
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 headlights and taillights: Headlights and taillights are more fragile than the metal of your car and will likely break first in a collision with your garage door.
Mechanical issues: Accidentally backing into your garage door can also cause mechanical problems in your vehicle, including damaged parts such as the 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 safely fix the issue.
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.
To lower your risk of accidents, take 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:
How do you know if your garage door needs repair?
If you reverse your car into your garage door, it’s best to contact a professional to assess the damage and determine whether you need repairs. If your door has a dent, you could need a total garage door replacement, depending on the extent of the damage.
How long does it take to repair a garage door?
The time it takes to repair a garage door will depend on the extent of the damage and the required parts’ availability. A professional can repair a garage door within a few hours to a full day if parts are available.
Does insurance cover hitting your garage door?
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 policy. They may ask for photos and quotations on the damage.
How much does it cost to fix a bent garage door?
It depends on the extent of the damage. If the damage is extensive, installing a new garage door might be better. A professional can advise you on the best course of action.
The 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. Attempting to repair your garage door by yourself can also be highly dangerous.
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.
Call Precision Overhead Garage Door Service to Fix Your Garage Door
It’s always best to trust the professionals to handle garage door repairs. Precision Overhead Garage Door Service is here to help you assess the damage to your garage door and advise you on how to proceed. Whether you need a simple repair or a complete replacement, our professional team will help you determine the best option for your needs and budget.