Reader Feedback: Another Child Dies

Readers sound off regarding PDD blog, “Another Child Dies Under Garage Door: Are we doing enough to educate?”

It sounds to me like the door was repaired by someone who did not know what they were doing. Even without the EO, a door should not fall. The balance was not proper on the door and if a spring was broken, the door should not have been open. Someone should and will pay for this. This is a good argument for regulations when it comes to garage doors.
Dewey Stewart
Midwest Garage Door Co.
Pawnee, Ill.

A properly balanced garage door would never need a 2-by-4, even with a motor detached from the operation of the door. Unfortunately the owner and the garage-repair company could be held liable with an incomplete repair and failure to advise of unsafe conditions with the door.

I have dealt with many landlords and, if a door is unsafe, I will inform them of unsafe conditions and let them know of their liability and responsibility of them to ensure the safety of their tenant. I also make notes of unsafe conditions for my records to protect my company. I hope all garage-door companies will learn from this tragic loss that their responsibility is to protect their customers from this kind of accident.
Fred Rush
Tri-City Overhead Door
Southern California

A worn-out opener, a door that needs to be propped, and a child pinned under the door all add up to a torsion-spring problem. This door wasn't balanced or a spring was broken. I think I would hate to be this landlord.
Ray Hubbard
T.R. Hubbard Garage Doors
Simi Valley, Calif.

Have something to say about garage-door safety or regulation? E-mail Managing Editor Lauren Vasquez at lvasquez@vpico.com.

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