If a fallen tree blocks your driveway, first make sure no one is hurt and that the tree isn’t touching power lines, then keep everyone away from it and contact a tree service to clear it. Don’t try to drive around, over or through it, and don’t start cutting it yourself.
A blocked driveway can feel urgent, especially if you need to get to work, school or medical care. The way you respond depends on the size of the tree and what else is involved.
Check for Hazards First
Look from a distance for downed or sagging power lines. Trees that fall across driveways often land near overhead service lines. If a line is down or touching the tree, stay far away and call 911 and your electric utility.
Check whether the tree is resting on a car, garage, fence or house. A tree supported by something else can be under tension and may shift.
Decide How Urgent It Is
If someone in the home may need emergency care, relies on regular medical visits or has no other way out, a blocked driveway becomes more urgent. Let emergency services know if they may need to reach your home.
If there’s another safe way to leave, such as a second driveway or walking out to a street where a ride can meet you, the tree may be able to wait for a scheduled visit.
Why DIY Cutting Is Risky Here
Trees across driveways are often bent, twisted or propped up at one end. When cut, the trunk can roll, spring up or drop suddenly. Branches may be hiding broken limbs that fall as the tree moves.
Using a vehicle, rope or chain to drag the tree can also cause it to swing unexpectedly and damage cars, fences or people standing nearby.
Getting It Cleared
A tree service can cut the tree into manageable pieces, clear the driveway and deal with any damage to the tree that’s still standing. Some services take calls outside normal business hours for problems like this, though availability can vary, particularly after widespread storms.
Take photos of the tree and any damage before it’s moved. Some homeowners policies include limited coverage for clearing a tree that blocks a driveway, but it varies, so check with your insurer.
Read more about after-hours tree service and when it makes sense to seek it. If the rest of the tree is damaged or unstable, emergency tree service may be needed as well.
If a tree has blocked the driveway at your Missouri home, keep clear of it and contact a local tree service in Joplin to talk through how quickly it needs to be cleared and what the job involves.
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