Safeguarding Cyclists: Defending Against Dooring Accidents

Cycling is excellent for fitness, money management, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle. However, it also comes with its risks, including dooring accidents. A dooring accident occurs when a person opens a car door when there is an oncoming cyclist, causing a collision. These accidents can be severe and even fatal, but you can take steps to defend against them. This article will explain some basic methods to defend against dooring accidents as bicyclists.

Defending Against Dooring Accidents

According to New York City Councilman James Vacca, "cyclists and commuters are being fatally injured and killed throughout New York, roughly once every 35 hours, and the drivers are practically going scot-free." Although these dooring accidents can be quite dangerous, they are also relatively simple to guard against as long as you follow some basic rules. Below are some of the most important.

1. Ride to the Left of Parked Cars

If permitted, one proven way to defend against dooring accidents is to ride to the left of parked cars. This way, you will always have more space between you and the parked cars, reducing the risk of a car door opening into your path. If there is not enough room to ride to the left of parked cars, you can ride in the middle of the lane, especially when you travel at the same speed as the traffic.

2. Watch for Occupied Cars

Another way to defend against dooring accidents is to constantly look for occupied cars. Watch for signs that a car might be about to open its door, such as someone reaching for the door handle or looking in the side mirror. Be especially cautious around cars idling or parked in loading zones or at the curb.

3. Use a Bell or Horn

A bell or horn is an effective way to defend against dooring accidents. If you see a car about to open its door, use your bell or horn to alert the driver and anyone else. This will allow them to look for cyclists and avoid opening their door into your path.

4. Ride Defensively

Riding defensively is another important way to defend against dooring accidents. Master your surroundings and anticipate potential hazards. Watch for brake lights or turn signals on parked cars, indicating that someone is about to get out. Scan parked cars for people sitting in them, and assume that any car door could open at any time.

5. Wear Protective Gear

Wearing protective gear is crucial for defending against dooring accidents. Use a protective helmet to safeguard your head in case of a collision, and consider wearing reflective clothing or accessories to make yourself more visible to drivers. When riding at night, always use lights and reflectors to increase your visibility.

6. Follow Traffic Laws

Finally, following traffic laws is essential for defending against dooring accidents. Ride in the direction of traffic and obey all traffic signals and signs. This will help you avoid collisions with cars and make you more predictable to drivers.

Conclusion

Dooring accidents can be severe and even fatal for bicyclists, but there are steps you can take to defend against them. "Ride to the left of parked cars, watch for occupied cars, use a bell or horn, ride defensively, wear protective gear, and follow traffic laws. By taking these steps, you can help reduce your risk of being involved in a dooring accident and stay safe while enjoying the many benefits of bicycling," says attorney Felix Gonzalez of Felix Gonzalez Accident and Injury Law Firm.