Article source: Felix Gonzalez, AZ
Dooring accidents are a common cause of injury and death for bicyclists. A dooring accident occurs when a driver or passenger of a parked car opens their door into the path of an oncoming bicyclist, causing a collision.
These collisions can cause serious injuries like fractures, head trauma, spinal injuries, and even death. However, there are steps that bicyclists can take to defend against dooring accidents and protect themselves while cycling.
In this article, we detail those steps to help you guard against dooring accidents as a bicyclist.
Tips to Prevent Dooring Accidents
Preventing dooring accidents or any other form of motorcycle accidents requires strict adherence to safety tips. “State governments are in the best position to effect meaningful improvement of transportation safety,” the NTSB Chairman Deborah Hersman said in a news release. Hence, it is crucial to follow state safety tips to prevent accidents.
To prevent face-bombing into an open vehicle door, follow these tips below.
- Stay Alert and Aware
The first step in defending against dooring accidents is to stay alert and aware while cycling. Bicyclists should always know their surroundings, especially when cycling near parked cars.
Keep an eye out for movement inside the parked cars and listen for any sounds indicating someone may be opening a door. If you see someone getting into a car, assume they will open the door soon and be prepared to take evasive action.
- Ride Further Away From Parked Cars
The second step is to ride further away from parked cars. The further you are from the parked cars, the more time you will have to react if someone opens a door suddenly. Use a bike lane or ride if one is in your city.
If not, always ride in the middle of the lane or as close to the center of the lane as possible. This will make you more visible to drivers and give you more room to maneuver if a door suddenly opens.
- Use Lights and Reflectors
Using lights and reflectors can make you more visible to drivers, especially at night or in low-light conditions. Ensure you have a white headlight on your bike and a red taillight on the back.
Reflectors on the front, back, pedals, and wheels can also help you stand out to drivers. If a driver can see you further away, they will have more time to react if they need to open their door.
- Take the Lane
If you are riding on a narrow road or a road with heavy traffic, it may be safer to take the lane. This means riding in the middle of the lane rather than on the right side of the road. By taking the lane, you make yourself more visible to drivers, and you can avoid being surprised by a sudden door opening.
Taking the lane is legal in most places, and drivers must give you enough space when passing.
- Slow Down and Be Ready to Stop
If you see someone getting into a car or parked car, slow down and be ready to stop if necessary. Even if you are riding far away from parked cars, someone could still open their door suddenly. By slowing down and being prepared to stop, you give yourself more time to react if a door opens unexpectedly.
Conclusion
Dooring accidents can be prevented if bicyclists take the necessary precautions while cycling. Staying alert and aware, riding further away from parked cars, and being ready to stop are all steps that can be taken to defend against dooring accidents.
It is important for both bicyclists and drivers to be aware of the dangers of dooring accidents and to work together to prevent them. “Sometimes dooring bicycle accidents still happen even with precautions. If you ever get in one, take the right steps to pursue financial restitution in court” says attorney Felix Gonzalez.
