Liability in “Doored” Bicycle Accidents in California

Most bicyclists are aware of the dangers of being doored by a car. And yet, these accidents still happen far too frequently. From drivers who park in bike lanes to those who simply are not paying attention to their surroundings, dooring accidents are almost always caused by a driver or passenger opening a vehicle door, suddenly blocking a cyclist from moving forward. Our Los Angeles bicycle doored accident lawyer explains.

In California, we have a specific state law to address dooring accidents. This law forbids drivers and passengers from opening vehicle doors on the side facing traffic until it is safe to do so and does not interfere with other traffic. Consequently, if someone has broken dooring law, they can be held responsible for any injuries caused by the accident.

Even if a cyclist is wearing a helmet, it does little to protect the rest of the body in these types of accidents. Dooring accidents can cause serious injuries to a cyclist including the following:

• Lacerations
• Fractures and other orthopedic injuries
• Traumatic brain injury
• Concussions
• Spinal cord injury
• Amputations
• Back injuries including disc herniations and bulges
• Blindness
• Organ injuries
• Paralysis
• Wrongful death, and
• Many other serious injuries.

Liability in a dooring case is typically proven by the fact that it happens.  This is because a motorist is required under California law to ensure it is safe to open his or her door before doing so.  The failure to do so, especially near a bike lane or where other bicyclists have driven by, is likely going to be negligent.  This may allow a victim to recover compensation for their serious personal injuries.

If you have been involved in a dooring accident, the at-fault party can be held responsible for any costs associated with your injuries. After a dooring accident, it’s important to get the legal advice of a Los Angeles bicycle doored accident lawyer to understand your rights. For more information and a FREE case review, contact us today at (888) 588-1777.  We are ready and willing to help.