Dooring Accident Lawyer Services

Being doored while cycling can lead to serious injuries and lasting consequences. A dooring accident happens when a vehicle occupant opens a car door into the path of a cyclist, giving them little to no time to react. These incidents can result in severe car door injuries, from fractures and head trauma to long-term mobility issues. In some cases, accidents caused fatal injuries, highlighting the potential severity of dooring accidents and the need for increased awareness and safety measures.

If you have been injured in a parked car open-door accident in the UK, you may be entitled to compensation. JMW’s expert dooring accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and secure the support you need. We have extensive experience in handling cycling accident claims, ensuring injured cyclists receive the best possible outcome.

Contact us today on 0345 872 6666 or fill out our online enquiry form.

How JMW Can Help

At JMW, we understand the serious impact a dooring accident can have on a cyclist’s life. Our experienced personal injury lawyers are here to help you claim compensation for your injuries and losses including bike damage, damaged items, medical expenses, care and assistance and loss of earnings.

The team is led by keen cyclist and partner Andrew Littlemore, who understands the risks riders face on the road. With his expertise and passion for cycling safety, we work to ensure that those injured in dooring accidents get the support they need. Our cycling team specialise in cycling accident claims and is here to support and assist cyclists after an accident. We also offer free legal advice to help potential clients understand their claims and navigate the process effectively.

Dooring Accidents Explained

Dooring accidents are a common risk for cyclists, especially in busy urban areas where cars are frequently parked along roadsides. These incidents often occur when a driver or passenger opens their car door without checking for approaching cyclists, giving them little time to react. The impact can throw a cyclist into traffic or onto the road, leading to serious injuries.

What Is Dooring?

A dooring accident happens when a vehicle occupant opens a car door into the path of a cyclist, causing a collision. Under UK law, it is the responsibility of the person opening the door to ensure it is safe to do so. If you are involved in such an incident, you may need to file a dooring accident claim. This involves gathering evidence, understanding the timelines for filing claims, and navigating the legal processes to seek compensation for any injuries or damages sustained.

Common Injuries in Dooring Accidents

Being doored while cycling can result in a range of injuries, including:

• Broken bones
• Head and brain injuries
• Muscle damage
• Soft tissue injuries
• Road rash and lacerations

In some cases, cyclists are thrown into the path of moving traffic, leading to even more severe consequences and serious injury. Handling legal claims associated with cycling accidents can be complex, requiring expertise to secure proper compensation for victims.

Who Is at Fault in a Dooring Accident?

In most cases, the fault lies with the person who opened the car door without checking for approaching cyclists. The Highway Code states that drivers and passengers must ensure it is safe before opening a door. Failure to do so can be considered negligence, making the driver or passenger liable for a compensation claim, highlighting the vulnerability of cyclists hit in such situations.

Drivers’ Legal Responsibility

It is an offence to open, or cause or permit to be opened, a car door so as to injure or endanger anyone (section 105, The Roads Vehicles (Constructions and Use) Regulations 1986)

Rule 239 of the Highway Code states drivers must ensure they do not hit anyone when they open their door. Drivers need to check for cyclists or other traffic by looking all around and using their mirrors

Drivers have a legal responsibility to ensure that they do not open their car door in a way that could cause harm to other road users, including cyclists. This includes checking for approaching cyclists before opening the door and using the “Dutch Reach” technique. The Dutch Reach involves using the far hand to open the door, which naturally forces the person to turn their body and look over their shoulder, reducing the risk of hitting a cyclist. If a driver fails to take these precautions and a cyclist is injured as a result, the driver may be held liable for the accident. This legal duty is crucial in preventing dooring accidents and protecting vulnerable road users.

This has been incorporated into Rule 239 of the Highway Code which states that where a driver is able to do so, they should open the door using their hand on the opposite side to the door they are opening.

What to Do After an Accident

If you are involved in a car dooring accident, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Even if your injuries seem minor, you should get checked out by a medical professional to ensure that you do not have any underlying injuries that could worsen over time.

In addition to seeking medical attention, you should also take steps to document the accident and gather evidence. This can include:

• Taking photos of the scene and any damage to the vehicles.
• Getting the contact details of any witnesses.
• Noting any CCTV cameras in the area.
• Reporting the accident to the police.

It is also a good idea to keep a record of any medical treatment you receive, including any medication you are prescribed and any physical therapy you undergo. This can help to support your personal injury claim and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.