Dooring occurs when someone inside a parked vehicle opens their door directly into the path of an approaching cyclist, motorcyclist or other road user. This sudden obstacle often leaves the oncoming person with little time to react. It could potentially cause serious accidents.
Common injuries from dooring incidents
When a cyclist collides with an unexpectedly opened car door, the impact can cause numerous injuries. These an include:
- Head trauma: Even with a helmet, cyclists may suffer concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries
- Facial injuries: Lacerations, dental damage and facial fractures are common
- Broken bones: Particularly in the collarbone, wrists and arms as victims attempt to brace for impact
- Road rash: Severe skin abrasions from sliding across pavement
- Spinal injuries: The force of collision can damage vertebrae or discs
- Internal injuries: Organ damage from handlebar impacts or other blunt trauma
The severity often increases when traffic strikes the cyclist after the initial dooring impact. This could cause secondary collisions with moving vehicles.
How you can prevent dooring accidents
Below are ways you can prevent these dangerous accidents:
- Practice the “Dutch Reach” – use your far hand (right hand if you’re the driver) to open your door. This forces you to turn your body and look over your shoulder for approaching cyclists.
- Always check your mirrors before opening your door.
- Open your door slowly and only as wide as necessary.
- Consider waiting a few moments if you see cyclists approaching.
If you are a cyclist, these precautions may help reduce your risk:
- Ride at least three feet away from parked cars when possible.
- Scan ahead for people in parked vehicles who might open doors.
- Moderate your speed in areas with heavy parking turnover.
- Stay vigilant, especially on streets with parallel parking.
Understanding your rights and responsibilities on the road is an effective way to prevent dooring incidents. You may want to review local cycling laws and vehicle codes to know how they apply to both cyclists and vehicle occupants in dooring situations. Knowing how these regulations protect road users can help you navigate streets more safely and confidently. Additionally, knowing exactly what steps to take immediately after a dooring accident can protect your legal rights.
If you are involved in a dooring accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may want to consult an attorney. They can help you understand your legal options.