A “dooring” accident is a common, yet often ignored threat that seriously harms bicyclists, especially in towns and cities. According to a study, doorings caused 15.2% of all bicycle accidents and were the most common cause of injury in these cases.
If you fall victim to a dooring accident, you can consult a bicycle accident lawyer to help you get compensation for the damages. Let’s discuss dooring accidents, the nature of injuries, preventive measures, and the legal aspects of these accidents.
What Are Dooring Accidents?
Dooring accidents happen when a car door unexpectedly opens into the path of an incoming bicycle and leads to an accident. This mostly happens when drivers or passengers open their car doors without first looking for bicycles. These accidents are more common in urban areas where cyclists ride near parked cars.
The situation basically goes like this: A cyclist is riding beside parked cars when, all of a sudden, a door opens in front of them. The cyclist hits the door with little to no time to respond, usually with tragic consequences. The act of opening a car door carelessly seems small, but it can cause serious danger to cyclists. According to a review of bike crashes in Chicago, USA, 344 dooring crashes were reported in 2011.
Injuries Caused by Dooring Accidents
Dooring incidents can lead to minor bruises and cuts to severe injuries. Some common injuries are:
- Cuts and bruises: These are the most basic forms of injury. They can still be painful and require medical attention.
- Broken bones: The force of hitting a door or the road can easily break bones. This especially includes wrists, arms, and collarbones.
- Head injuries: Even with a helmet, cyclists can suffer concussions or severe head injuries. This can happen if they hit the door or pavement hard.
- Spinal injuries: Falling awkwardly can lead to spinal injuries. These injuries can cause permanent disabilities.
- Fatalities: Dooring accidents can be deadly, when a cyclist is thrown into traffic.
How to Prevent Dooring Accidents
To prevent dooring incidents, bicyclists and drivers must be attentive and watchful. The following strategies can also be helpful:
For Drivers and Passengers
- The Dutch Reach method: The Dutch Reach method includes opening the car door with the hand that is furthest from the door. It is recommended for both drivers and passengers. This movement allows the person to look over their shoulder by making the body turn and check for traffic, including bicycles.
- Check the mirrors: Whenever you open a door, you should make sure to check the side and rearview mirrors.
For Cyclists
- Maintain a safe distance: If it is possible, ride three feet or a meter away from parked vehicles to avoid opening doors.
- Stay alert: You should keep an eye out for signs that someone is inside a parked car, such as hands on a door, heads in cars, or glowing brake lights.
- Use lights and dress brightly: You should make yourself as noticeable as you can. It is important, especially during bad weather or at night.
Dooring Accident Lawsuits
Legal liability is a common topic that comes up after dooring accidents. People in cars are bound by law in many areas to make sure it is safe to open their doors to oncoming traffic. Because of this, the person who opened the door in the case of a dooring accident is mostly held accountable for any injuries caused.
With the help of personal injury lawyers, victims of dooring accidents can get compensation for lost wages, medical costs, and pain and suffering. Proving the person who opened the door was negligent is an important component in these cases. It can be difficult to decide who is accountable without evidence such as witness accounts, traffic camera videos, and police reports.
Conclusion
Dooring is a major concern for cyclists, and it can result in severe injuries or even death. However, tragedy can be avoided if drivers and cyclists show mutual respect and caution.
Drivers and cyclists can help make the roads safer for everyone by using safe behaviors. These include the Dutch Reach method, checking mirrors, and keeping a safe riding distance.
More and more people are choosing to travel by bicycle because cities are getting more crowded. It is important to understand and avoid dooring accidents. Let’s work together for the safety of everyone who uses the road.
