I Got Doored by a Driver While Riding in a Bike Lane: Can I Sue?
Bicycle accidents can happen anytime drivers fail to pay attention or drive recklessly. While bike lanes are theoretically supposed to help make riding a bike on the roads safer for cyclists, even a vehicle parked next to a bike lane can pose a hazard. Dooring a bicyclist, meaning opening a car door into a bike lane as a cyclist is passing, is a common problem that can result in serious injuries.
At Moody Law, our bicycle accident attorneys help dooring accident victims in Lakeland, FL, and Winter Haven, FL, recover compensation for their injuries. If you have been doored and suffered injuries, you may be able to sue for compensation. Speak with one of our attorneys to learn more about your options.
What Does “Getting Doored” Mean?
“Getting doored” is a common threat to bicyclists. “Getting doored,” or “dooring,” occurs when someone opens their car door in front of a bicyclist. This can cause the bicyclist to run into the door or swerve into traffic, often resulting in injuries to the cyclist.
Dangers of Getting Doored
Although it may seem that opening a car door in front of a bicyclist wouldn’t cause much harm, it can actually be very dangerous. This is because a bicyclist may not have enough time to stop before hitting the door in their path. As a result, the cyclist might get thrown off of their bike and seriously injured.
Another possibility is the bicyclist is forced to swerve around an open door and into traffic, causing the cyclist to be hit by a passing vehicle. This can lead to significant injuries to the cyclist or even death.
Types of Injuries from Getting Doored
Injuries from getting doored can range from minor to catastrophic. Some accident victims will be left with permanent injuries with life-changing consequences. Some possible types of injuries from getting doored include:
- Contusions
- Abrasions and lacerations
- Bone fractures
- Limb amputation
- Damage to the internal organs
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
Seek Damages Through a Personal Injury Lawsuit
When parking on the street, it’s important that drivers and passengers check for traffic and bicyclists before opening their car door and exiting the vehicle. Failure to do so has the potential to seriously injure bicyclists.
In the event a cyclist gets doored and seriously injured due to another person’s negligence, it may be possible to recover compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. A personal injury attorney can collect evidence, such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements, to help build a strong case and support your claims.
Through a personal injury lawsuit, it may be possible to recover compensation for damages such as:
- Medical bills
- Physical therapy
- Lost wages
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
Schedule a Consultation with Moody Law
If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other damages. To discuss your claim and learn more about your legal options, we welcome you to schedule a consultation at our Lakeland law firm.
