In 2011, dooring was the cause of 20% of cyclist injuries and fatalities. However, dooring can also affect pedestrians, motorcyclists, people riding e-scooters, and even other motorists. Continue reading to learn more about dooring accidents from Bronx E-bike attorneys Glenn and Robin Herman.

What Does Dooring Mean? Dooring Definition in Traffic Law

Dooring is a common form of collision where a driver opens a door on or in the path of a cyclist. Occurring mainly when car occupants fail to check their surroundings, it often results in severe injuries or fatalities. Many cyclists have been hit by oncoming vehicles or cars approaching from behind when attempting to avoid the opened door. To prevent such accidents, it is crucial for drivers and passengers to stay alert and aware of their surroundings to avoid opening their doors into others approaching on bicycles, stand-up scooters, mopeds, e-scooters, and other micromobility devices.

What Injuries Are Caused by Dooring Accidents?

Dooring accidents can cause severe injuries to cyclists that vary according to the cyclist’s speed, direction of travel, and the force of the opened door. Common injuries include:

• Whiplash and other severe neck or spinal injuries due to the force of being suddenly stopped.

• Abrasions and lacerations, which may include road burn, from contact with the road.

• Concussions and traumatic brain injuries, which can have a range of life-long side effects, as a result of the impact with the door or with the road.

• Broken and fractured bones or crush injuries from contact with the door or from the impact of a fall.

• Fatalities have occurred when cyclists have swerved out of the way and ridden into traffic.

Dooring Liability in New York State: Is the Person Who Opened the Door Always Liable?

In most…