What to do if someone hits your garage door?

What to Do If Someone Hits Your Garage Door: A Complete Professional Guide

A damaged garage door can be stressful — especially when it’s caused by someone else. Whether a delivery driver, neighbor, or passing vehicle hits your garage door, knowing the right steps to take can protect your property, your safety, and your insurance claim.

Garage doors are large mechanical systems under tension. Even minor impact can cause hidden structural or safety issues. Below is a professional step-by-step guide to help you handle the situation properly.

1. Ensure Safety First

Before anything else:

• Check that no one is injured.

• Keep children and pets away from the area.

• Do NOT attempt to operate the garage door if it looks bent, misaligned, or off-track.

• Avoid touching springs or cables — they are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury.

If the door is severely damaged and blocking your driveway or vehicle, avoid forcing it open.

2. Document the Damage Immediately

Proper documentation protects you during insurance claims.

Take clear photos of:

• The entire garage door

• Close-ups of dents, cracks, or bent panels

• Tracks and rollers

• The vehicle that caused the damage (if still present)

• License plate and driver information

If the driver is present, collect:

• Full name

• Phone number

• Driver’s license number

• Insurance information

• Vehicle registration

If the driver leaves the scene, contact local authorities and file a report.

3. File a Police Report (If Necessary)

If there is significant damage, a hit-and-run, or dispute, contact your local police department and request a report. A police report strengthens your insurance claim and protects you legally.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company

Depending on the situation, one of the following may apply:

• The driver's auto insurance covers the damage.

• Your homeowner’s insurance may cover it.

• Your deductible may apply if you file under your own policy.

Provide:

• Photos

• Police report (if applicable)

• Written repair estimate

Tip: Do not repair the door before your insurance company documents the damage unless it's an emergency safety issue.

5. Inspect for Structural and Mechanical Issues

Even if the damage looks minor, impact can cause:

• Bent tracks

• Misaligned rollers

• Broken hinges

• Damaged torsion or extension springs

• Off-track door panels

• Motor strain or opener damage

If your door is now off track, you may need immediate professional repair. You can learn more about off-track issues from experts who specialize in systems like LiftMaster openers and modern garage door systems.

6. Avoid DIY Repairs on Major Damage

Garage doors weigh between 130–400+ pounds. Springs hold high tension and can cause severe injury.

Do NOT:

• Try to bend panels back into place

• Adjust torsion springs

• Force the door closed with the opener

• Disconnect cables without training

Minor cosmetic dents may be repairable, but structural damage requires a licensed garage door technician.

7. Get a Professional Inspection

A professional garage door company will:

• Inspect panel alignment

• Check track system integrity

• Test spring balance

• Examine opener motor strain

• Verify safety sensors

• Provide a written estimate

Sometimes only one panel needs replacement. Other times, if the door is older or heavily damaged, full replacement may be more cost-effective.

8. Temporary Security Solutions

If the garage door cannot close:

• Secure valuables inside.

• Use plywood as a temporary cover.

• Disconnect the opener to prevent motor burnout.

• Lock the interior door leading into your home.

A professional company can often provide same-day emergency board-up or temporary secure solutions.

9. Decide: Repair or Replace?

Repair May Be Possible If:

• Only one panel is dented

• Tracks are slightly bent

• Springs and cables are intact

• Door is relatively new

Replacement May Be Recommended If:

• Multiple panels are damaged

• Structural frame is bent

• Door is over 10–15 years old

• Repair cost is more than 50% of replacement cost

Modern garage doors offer better insulation, security, and curb appeal. Upgrading may increase home value.

10. Prevent Future Incidents

While accidents can’t always be prevented, you can:

• Install motion lighting

• Add reflective driveway markers

• Install a camera system

• Paint trim edges with high-visibility paint

• Widen driveway entry if possible

For properties near tight streets or delivery-heavy areas, visibility improvements help reduce risk.

Final Thoughts

If someone hits your garage door, stay calm and follow a structured process:

1. Prioritize safety

2. Document everything

3. Collect information

4. Contact insurance

5. Schedule professional inspection

A garage door is one of the largest moving parts of your home. Even small impact damage can lead to safety hazards if ignored. Acting quickly and professionally protects both your property and your peace of mind.

If your garage door has been hit and is not operating safely, contact a licensed garage door technician immediately for inspection and repair.