Regardless of whether you own it or not, a fallen tree in the middle of the road is a major safety hazard. Fallen trees need removal ASAP or else they can cause car crashes and other injuries. The question then becomes who to call when a tree falls in the road.
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Who Do You Call When a Tree Falls in the Road?
Ultimately, the answer to this question depends on whether the tree falls in the middle of a private or public road. Whether or not a road is public or private also factors into who is responsible for any damages.
Private Road
If the tree falls on a private road, such as a personal driveway or business parking lot, then the owner is ultimately responsible for its removal and disposal. The simplest option is for the private owner to call a professional tree removal service. There is no law stating how long you have to remove a fallen tree from your property, but you can be forced to act if the fallen tree is encroaching on your neighbor’s property line.
Public Road
Wondering who to call when a tree falls in the road? If you see a fallen tree in the middle of a public road, such as a highway or side street, you should contact local authorities (911). Fallen trees blocking public roads are a serious public safety issue, so emergency services should be the first to call. Trees falling over public roads are also more likely to damage electrical lines, so the police department may need to shut the road down while a utility company makes power repairs.
Who Is Responsible for Tree Damage?
Responsibility for tree damage depends on a handful of factors, including the tree’s location, the damaging event, and the tree’s health condition. With trees on public property, it is the government’s responsibility to fix any damage to roads and perform road maintenance
With private trees, it’s a bit more complicated. Generally speaking, if a tree falls on your property and damages your neighbor’s property (their shed, for example), you are usually not responsible for the damages. Most of the time, your homeowner’s insurance or the neighbor’s homeowner’s insurance should cover damage from falling trees.
The main exception is if your tree falls due to neglect or poor care. If poor care has increased tree mortality, then you can be held responsible for damages to your neighbor’s property. That is why it is a good idea to keep tabs on your trees’ health and remove any dying trees before they become a falling hazard.
Residential and Commercial Tree Services in Buford, GA
Have questions beyond who to call when a tree falls in the road, like, “Why do trees lose their leaves in winter?” Contact Georgia Tree Company online or give us a call today at (404) 990-0010 to schedule an appointment!