Question
I have a damaged Bloodgood Japanese Maple. This tree was hit by a commercial truck. The tree has no main trunk but instead had six trunks or main limbs starting at ground level. Two of these main trunks sixteen feet in length were sheared off the tree right at the ground and two substantial (fourteen foot long) branches were destroyed as well. The accident has made this tree look like it has been physically cut in half. The insurance company from this trucks firm contracted an arborist who not only said that the tree would live but that the arborist could trim up the tree and it would look ok (impossible because over a third of the tree is wiped out all on the same side) This arborist also stated that she could promote growth where the branches are gone so that in time the tree would become symmetric again. Now I am starting to see a lot of white spots, brown spots, disfiguring holes, and lacerated or torn spots all over the leaves. I am also seeing leaves turning blood red and falling off the tree. There is a probability that besides the apparent missing limbs and branches that there might have been hidden damage to the root bed caused by vehicular fluids leaking into the ground and damage from the tires compressing while driving over the roots. I believe that this arborist was paid by the insurance company to give them the answers they wanted to hear to keep from paying for my loss. And I am afraid that my precious tree might be dying a slow death. SO what I am asking is for some experts who can give me some expert advice in this matter.  If anyone out there would like to see more detailed pictures I can send them in an e-mail.  I can provide close up images plus many more.
Thank you for any technical advice you can give.


Answer
Ron:

Someone really needs an "in-person" view of the tree plus an evaluation of the site and condition of the tree.  From your description, quite a bit of damage was probably done and there may be some permanent damage done by the vehicle. Leaf drop is usually a sign of stress- sometimes from the roots-sometimes from other sources. An arborist or urban forester should be able to give you a professional evaluation. If you feel you are not satisfied with the service you have got so far, consider a second opinion from a professional.  Since this tree is apparantly very important to you, you need to feel that you are getting an unbiased examination.

Regards
Steve