Los Angeles streets are becoming increasingly bike-friendly, but a dangerous hazard remains: dooring accidents. These collisions occur when a driver or passenger opens their car door directly into the path of an oncoming cyclist, often with devastating consequences. Since more and more are choosing cycling for commuting and recreation, it is important to understand three basics about these potentially deadly accidents.
#1: What makes dooring accidents so dangerous?
The sudden appearance of a car door gives cyclists virtually no time to react. A rider traveling at even moderate speeds can suffer fatal injuries when they collide with an unexpectedly opened door or swerve into traffic to avoid it. Examples include:
- Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
- Broken bones and fractures
- Road rash and severe lacerations
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, lengthy recovery periods and can result in permanent disability or death. The physical trauma is frequently accompanied by significant financial burdens and emotional distress.
#2: What is the door zone?
The “door zone” refers to the area immediately adjacent to parked cars where an opened door can strike a cyclist. This zone typically extends three to four feet from parked vehicles. Experienced cyclists know to position themselves outside this dangerous area whenever possible, but narrow Los Angeles streets and heavy traffic often force riders into compromised positions. Although speed management when riding near parked cars helps provide for more reaction time, this measure is not always enough. This is especially true at night when visibility challenges compound the danger, making it even harder for cyclists to spot doors opening or for drivers to see approaching riders.
#3: How does liability work?
California law is clear: drivers have a legal duty to check for approaching traffic, including bicycles, before opening their doors. When a driver fails to look and causes a dooring accident, they are likely liable for the resulting injuries and damages.
Protecting Los Angeles cyclists
Dooring accidents are entirely preventable. As Los Angeles continues expanding its cycling infrastructure, driver awareness must keep pace. A simple shoulder check takes seconds but can prevent life-altering injuries. Drivers must recognize that their momentary inattention can have permanent consequences for vulnerable road users. By staying alert and checking carefully before opening doors, motorists can help make Los Angeles streets safer for everyone.
