Car accidents occur all the time in the United States; in fact, there are
more than 6 million accidents reported every year that result in countless
injuries and fatalities. Though we typically associate car accidents with
speeding or a failure to brake in time before a rear-end collision, accidents
and injuries can also occur when a vehicle is parked and not moving. Dooring
is one of the most common ways bicyclists and motorcyclists alike are
injured on the road, and drivers responsible for the dooring can be held
liable for damages if victims file claims.
What is Dooring?
Dooring refers to an accident that occurs when a parked driver or passenger
is exiting their vehicle. The car occupant opens their door to get out,
which just so happens to block the path of an oncoming cyclist. Bicyclists
or motorcyclists often don’t have time to brake or change lanes
to avoid a collision.
Because bicyclists and motorcyclists don’t have the protection that
vehicle occupants have, including seat belts and airbags, they’re
much more likely to suffer serious injuries in accidents, including dooring
accidents. These injuries can include broken or crushed bones, spinal
cord or neck injuries like paralysis, and severe head or brain damage.
Individuals responsible for the dooring can be considered negligent because
even if their vehicle is parked, they’re still responsible for keeping
the road safe for others. Opening your door without checking that the
coast is clear is dangerous.
How to Avoid Dooring
As a driver who decides to park on the side of a street, there are some
tips you can follow to prevent causing a dooring accident.
If you’re in a car:
- Use your mirrors to check that the path is clear before you open your door
- Open your door slowly but close it quickly
- Don’t leave your door open for too long
Bicyclists have a right to remain in the bicycle lane, but it’s still
important to be alert and make accommodations if you notice cars parked
on the side of the road.
If you’re riding a bike, you can do the following to avoid being doored:
- Ride outside the door zone
- Look out for drivers or passengers sitting in their vehicles
- Ride at a legal speed
If you’ve been involved in a dooring accident as a cyclist, chances
are you have mounting medical bills and other expenses due to your injuries.
Hiring a personal injury attorney to fight for compensation on your behalf
is crucial if you wish to stay out of debt.
Ready to Go to Trial for You
When drivers and other individuals cause injuries to others, they should
be held financially responsible for all damages that occur. Drivers have
a responsibility to follow all traffic laws and keep the roads safe for
those around them, including drivers, passengers, and even pedestrians
who may be nearby. If you have been injured, you deserve to be represented
by a team of litigators who aren’t afraid to go to trial for you.
The Law Office of James M. Stanley has more than 40 years of trial experience
and prepares for our cases with the understanding that we may have to
go to court to pursue your goals. No case is too complex or daunting for
us to handle. You can rest at home or in the hospital knowing we can take
care of your case and get the compensation you need to pay for medical
bills, property damage, and lost wages.
Call {F:P:Site:Phone} or contact us online.to seek trusted legal representation after a road accident. Whether you’re
a driver, bicyclist, or pedestrian, you can rest assured knowing our team
has successfully settled injury claims for more than 40 years.