When Vehicles Collide with Homes: The Role of Structural Engineers in Damage Assessment

 

Every year, thousands of vehicles inadvertently crash into residential structures—whether due to driver error, medical emergencies, mechanical failure, or impaired driving. While the immediate concerns often focus on personal injuries and vehicle damage, the structural integrity of the impacted home is frequently overlooked in the initial aftermath. That’s where Garrett Forensics steps in—with expert structural engineering evaluations that are crucial for ensuring safety, determining liability, and guiding necessary repairs.

 

The Hidden Dangers of Vehicle-to-Structure Collisions
When a vehicle strikes a building, the visible damage—such as cracked walls or displaced bricks—is only part of the story. The kinetic energy transferred during the impact can compromise foundational elements like load-bearing walls, floor joists, roof connections, and even the foundation slab. These structural components may not show obvious signs of damage at first glance, but if left unchecked, they can pose long-term safety hazards including:

Progressive collapse

Compromised fire resistance

Water infiltration due to envelope breaches

Decreased seismic or wind resistance

Without a thorough structural evaluation, property owners, insurers, and contractors are left making decisions based on incomplete information.

 

Garrett Forensics: Bringing Structural Expertise to Collision Sites
At Garrett Forensics, our structural engineers specialize in post-impact structural assessments. We are frequently retained by insurance companies, law firms, and property owners to investigate the extent of damage after a vehicle collides with a building. Our engineers are licensed, experienced in forensic analysis, and well-versed in residential construction standards across various jurisdictions.

Here’s what our inspections typically include:

On-site structural damage evaluation: Identifying and documenting both visible and hidden structural damage using advanced tools and methods.

Load path analysis: Assessing how the impact may have altered the way forces are distributed through the structure.

Foundation inspection: Evaluating for movement, cracks, or other stress-related issues at the base of the building.

Repair recommendations: Offering detailed engineering guidance for safe and code-compliant repairs.

Litigation support: Providing expert witness services, reports, and testimony if the incident involves legal or insurance disputes.

 

Insurance and Legal Implications
Vehicle-into-building incidents almost always involve an insurance claim, and occasionally, litigation. Garrett Forensics bridges the gap between technical engineering findings and the practical needs of claims adjusters, attorneys, and homeowners. Our reports are written in clear, defensible language and backed by engineering rigor, making them invaluable for:

Establishing causation and scope of damage

Determining whether a structure is safe for occupancy

Supporting claims for structural repair or total loss

Defending against fraudulent or inflated claims

 

Peace of Mind Through Expert Evaluation
Structural damage is not always obvious—but the risks of overlooking it are high. If your home or a client’s property has been struck by a vehicle, a prompt and thorough investigation by a qualified structural engineer is essential. Garrett Forensics has the tools, experience, and expertise to ensure that no damage goes unnoticed and that every recommendation is backed by sound engineering judgment.

 

Contact Garrett Forensics today to schedule a structural damage inspection and ensure your case or claim is built on solid ground.