What is a Bicycle “Dooring” Accident in NJ?

Cycling in New Jersey presents numerous risks. However, a particularly unfair hazard these road users face is “dooring.” One moment you are cruising down the bike lane, and the next, a car door suddenly opens, sending you flying over your handlebars. Dooring accidents are swift, painful, and often preventable. This raises important questions: who is at fault? It is crucial to understand what a dooring accident entails, identify who can be held responsible, and know what steps to take if you are injured. Please continue reading as we explore what you should know about these matters and how a determined Morris County Bicycle Accident Attorney can help you fight for the justice you deserve.

Why Do Bicycle “Dooring” Accidents Happen in NJ?

In New Jersey, individuals exiting vehicles are legally obligated to check for cyclists and pedestrians to prevent collisions. Regrettably, haste often leads to neglect of this duty, resulting in devastating injuries for cyclists.

When a vehicle occupant opens a car door into the path of an approaching cyclist, causing a collision, this incident is termed a “dooring” accident. Cyclists typically have no time to react, frequently leading to falls, head trauma, bone fractures, and other serious injuries.

Vehicle occupants must inspect their mirrors and blind spots before opening their door to avert accidents. Unlike vehicle occupants, cyclists possess limited protection during impact.

What Types of Injuries Do Dooring Accidents Typically Cause?

Cyclists involved in dooring accidents frequently sustain a range of injuries, including:

• Head trauma
• Facial injuries
• Clavicle and shoulder injuries
• Wrist and hand injuries
• Spinal injuries
• Knee and leg injuries
• Soft tissue damage
• Internal injuries

Dooring accidents can involve a cyclist hitting a car door, being forced to swerve, or being thrown into traffic. When cyclists are traveling at significant speeds, a collision with a stationary door can feel like hitting a wall.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

In most cases, the individual who opened the car door can be held liable for your damages, as they are obligated to ensure it’s safe to do so. However, liability can extend to the driver or even the cyclist, depending on the specifics of the situation. For example, illegal parking by the driver or reckless cycling, such as speeding, could result in shared responsibility.

In rare cases, third-party entities like a delivery driver or government agency may be liable due to poor infrastructure, such as constructing a dangerously narrow bike lane. To determine liability, it is in your best interest to consult an experienced attorney.

It is common for insurance companies to minimize payouts, even when negligence clearly causes a dooring accident. They might dispute the severity of your injuries or present a low initial settlement, hoping for a swift resolution. At Lutz Injury Law, we are prepared to be your advocate. Our legal team will champion your case. Connect with our firm today to schedule a consultation.