Dooring happens when someone driving or parked in a vehicle opens a door into the path of a bicyclist or motorcyclist This type of accident often causes serious injury because the driver opening the door fails to ensure it is safe to do so
Laws That Apply
Under California law drivers are prohibited from opening a vehicle door on the side facing moving traffic unless it can be done safely and without interfering with traffic This legal requirement means drivers must check for approaching cyclists or motorcyclists before opening the door
Three Ways Dooring Can Injure Riders
- A rider may crash into the opened door causing immediate impact and injury
- A rider may swerve sharply to avoid the door and collide with another vehicle or lose control
- A rider may fall off their bike when trying to avoid the door which can lead to severe injuries
Because bicyclists and motorcyclists have little protection compared to occupants of vehicles the consequences are often worse
Types of Harm That Commonly Result
In dooring incidents riders may suffer:
- Neck injuries such as whiplash or damaged vertebrae
- Broken bones
- Head injuries including traumatic brain injury
- Cuts or lacerations possibly leading to nerve damage
- Injuries to back such as herniated discs
- Injuries to legs abdomen arms or chest
- Paralysis or internal organ damage
- In tragic cases wrongful death
Proving Liability
To recover compensation following a dooring accident a rider generally must prove:
- The driver had a duty to act safely
- The driver breached that duty by opening the door unsafely
- That breach directly caused the accident
- The accident resulted in real injuries or financial loss
Useful evidence can include photos or videos of the scene surveillance footage medical records and witness testimony
What Hillstone Law Can Do for You
If you are injured in a dooring accident Hillstone Law can help by investigating the circumstances gathering evidence negotiating with those responsible and seeking full compensation for your injuries lost wages medical bills pain and suffering and any long term disability
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Disclaimer: The material provided in these blogs is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Reading these posts does not create, and is not intended to create, an attorney-client relationship with Hillstone Law. Our intent is to share knowledge, raise awareness, and provide helpful resources to the public; however, Hillstone Law makes no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided, and expressly disclaims liability for any actions taken in reliance on it. The photos used in these posts are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict actual clients, individuals, or incidents unless expressly stated. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, please contact Hillstone Law at (855) 691-1691. Our attorneys are available to answer your legal questions and help you understand your rights.
