What is a Dooring Accident?

What is a Dooring Accident?

If you are a bicyclist, you have likely heard of ‘dooring’ accidents at some point. A dooring accident occurs when a motorist or occupant of a vehicle opens a vehicle door that is directly in the path of a bicyclist. When this happens, it often occurs so suddenly that the bicyclist is unable to avoid the obstacle in time, resulting in serious injuries to the cyclist. These types of accidents can be avoided if drivers and passengers of the vehicles check to see if it is safe before opening their doors. Unfortunately, many motorists and passengers fail to do so, resulting in seriously injuring bicyclists.

What Are Common Injuries Caused by Dooring Accidents?

No matter how many precautions you take as a bicyclist, it can be difficult to avoid such hazards, given that the actions of others are not in your control. Unfortunately, bicyclists are susceptible to serious injuries in the event of an accident. This is because bicyclists do not have the same level of external protection like vehicles, making them more prone to extreme injuries and even death. It is not uncommon for dooring accidents to cause serious injuries, such as:

  • Whiplash
  • Lacerations
  • Broken bones
  • Internal injuries and/or bleeding
  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  • Spinal cord injury

Why Are These Types of Accidents on the Rise?

Southern California is a great place for bicyclists to get their exercise in, while also allowing them to get from point A to point B. Because of the great weather year-round, many people partake in biking, as we often see on the roads. Although there are many great benefits to biking, such as being an environmentally friendly and healthy way to commute, it does pose serious risks to bicyclists. This is why it is important to keep a safe distance from parked cars in order to avoid dooring accidents. Unfortunately, you cannot control the actions of others as bicyclists, but you can control your own by minimizing the risks of such accidents. 

Contact Daneshgar Law For a Free Consultation

If you have been involved in a dooring accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses. Contact Daneshgar Law for a free consultation with a trusted bicycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles!

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10866 Wilshire Blvd
4th Floor,
Los Angeles, CA 90024

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