Gate Out of Service - Amazon Collision

Volunteer board members were able to diagnose the gate issue within the first hour as a safety fault and attempted first-line repairs. When these efforts did not restore service, a work order was placed with Metroplex Gate. Gates were operational in 23 hours.

The failure was ultimately traced to damage caused by an Amazon Prime delivery truck striking the east gate operator on November 10 at 4:54 PM. The impact shifted the operator housing off its concrete pad, causing mechanical misalignment that led to a cam failure. The gate is currently operating under a temporary repair while replacement parts—now out of production—are being sourced. If the parts cannot be obtained, full replacement of the operator is expected to cost approximately $12,000.

This incident marks the third gate collision this year involving service vehicles. Unfortunately, these events are becoming more frequent and increasingly difficult to resolve. Drivers often leave the scene or refuse to cooperate, as collisions can threaten their employment. In this case, the driver was witnessed by three residents, the truck has cameras, he refused to provide identification or insurance information and denied the incident.

Recovering costs from large national delivery companies is neither quick nor straightforward. Accident reporting systems are difficult to access, responsibility is often layered through multiple third-party administrators, and response timelines are slow. Despite these obstacles, Lakes of Bent Tree has identified Amazon’s insurer and filed a formal claim. Claim / Incident Number: POP25YOLXZX Adjuster: Dixie Morris, (646) 847-0012

At present, Amazon does not recognize the vehicle as one of theirs, and the driver listed in their internal logs does not match the individual photographed at the scene.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Incidents like this highlight a growing risk to our gate system. Modern delivery operations increasingly rely on rented vehicles, subcontracted drivers, and aggressive delivery schedules. These conditions have led to speeding, tailgating gates, entering through exits, and vehicles attempting to “beat” closing gates—all of which place our infrastructure at risk.

While individual repairs and claims will continue to be pursued, reactive repairs are no longer sufficient. In 2026, the Board expects to evaluate physical and operational changes to better protect the gates and reduce repeat damage. These may include structural barriers, revised traffic flow, enhanced deterrents, or other protective measures.

Residents should expect future discussions focused not just on repairs, but on prevention, cost containment, and safety.