In bustling urban environments, where traffic congestion is a daily occurrence, the risk of accidents looms large for motorcyclists. One situation that riders encounter is dooring.
This happens when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of an oncoming motorcycle. Understanding how dooring leads to motorcycle accidents is important for riders.
Distractions
Dooring incidents often occur due to a lack of awareness of the person opening the door. Whether it is a driver exiting their vehicle or a passenger distracted by their phone, failing to check for approaching motorcycles is a problem. Without proper attention to their surroundings, individuals may swing open their door directly into the path of a motorcyclist.
Limited time to react
For motorcyclists, the sudden appearance of a car door is an issue. With little to no time to react, riders must make split-second decisions. However, the speed and proximity at which these incidents occur leave little room for evasive action.
Increased chance of injury
When a motorcycle collides with a car door, the force of the impact can throw the rider off their bike, causing them to strike the pavement or an object with significant force. Without the protective metal of a car, motorcyclists can get serious injuries. From broken bones to traumatic head injuries, the aftermath can be life-altering. Even wearing a well-fitting helmet may not be enough.
Injuries from a motorcycle accident can lead to a person struggling to walk or complete daily tasks. Motorcyclists facing dooring accidents may want to seek fair compensation.