When you’re biking one of the many beautiful bike paths through Minneapolis parks and trails, you can enjoy the ride knowing you’re safe. But what happens when you are in an unprotected bike lane or riding on a street next to rows of parked cars?
Many streets around the University of Minnesota campus have this issue, for example. There are unprotected bike lanes on Oak Street, Pillsbury Drive/Harvard Street, 5th Street, and more—and those are the streets that have bike lanes at all. Many others, particularly side streets, don’t delineate an area for bikers.
Minneapolis drivers who do not check their mirrors or who park in unprotected bike lanes can quickly open doors that cyclists are too close to avoid. When a cyclist hits an opened vehicle door, it’s referred to as “dooring.” These are one of the most common bicycle accidents I see.
What is a Dooring?
Imagine biking along Lyndale Avenue in south Minneapolis, enjoying the day on your way to your yoga class. Suddenly, the car parked along the side of the road opens the driver door. You’re too close. You swerve, but you still catch the edge of the door, and you fall off your bike and hit the pavement hard.
Doorings happen quickly and unexpectedly. They are painful, at best, and debilitating or deathly at worst.
Anyone opening a vehicle door must first ensure that it’s safe to do so, according to Minnesota Statute 169.315. The statute also requires that doors should not impede other traffic. However, that doesn’t mean it always happens. It’s imperative that all of us—drivers, passengers and cyclists—do what we can to prevent dooring accidents.
Common Causes of Doorings
As an experienced personal injury lawyer, I’ve seen numerous instances of dooring. And as an avid cyclist, I’ve had too many close calls to count.
Ultimately, the final cause of dooring accidents is drivers or passengers not seeing a cyclist. This can happen due to human error or city planning that doesn’t accommodate mixed-transportation areas.
Human-Error Causes of Doorings
It’s easy to assume that all doorings result from drivers or passengers simply not looking for cyclists. While that is often an issue, some causes go deeper than that. They can also be caused by:
- Drivers or passengers not seeing cyclists even when they look for them (for example, if the cyclist is in the blind spot or if they blend into the scenery)
- People exiting vehicles quickly, such as passengers exiting taxis or rideshare vehicles or delivery drivers trying to keep up with company metrics
- Tourists who are unfamiliar with the area and paying attention to the other happenings
- Out-of-towners who aren’t used to being in an area with a heavy cycling culture
City Planning Causes of Doorings
Even when drivers and passengers take a moment to look for cyclists, the setting may make it difficult to avoid doorings. Here in Minneapolis and as the leader of our state’s Bike Law program, I commonly see these types of accidents in areas like:
- Narrow streets with unprotected bike lanes
- Street parking that doesn’t account for a separate bike lane
- Congested or crowded areas like parking lots, particularly during busy sports seasons
Dooring Risks
If you’re cycling and don’t have enough time to swerve to avoid colliding with an opened door, you’re at risk for numerous injuries:
- Minor injuries, like bruises or scratches
- Moderate injuries, like a broken arm or mild concussion
- Severe injuries, like head injuries or spinal fractures
- Incapacitation or death
Injuries can be particularly severe when you are flipped over your handlebars. You can land in a way that exacerbates the damage your body suffers. And if you’re on a busy street, swerving away or hitting the door can put you in the path of other traffic.
Tips to Help Prevent Dooring Accidents
While doorings are common, they do not need to be. No matter where you are, it’s always smart to take precautions to keep yourself and others safe.
Preventing Dooring Accidents If You Are a Driver or Passenger
When you’re opening any vehicle door, be sure to look around. Don’t just glance for a cyclist; take a long moment to make sure you see any movement. Use your eyes and your ears to stay alert for cyclists and pedestrians.
One way to help prevent a dooring is to do what is known as the “Dutch reach.” This is when you reach for the door handle with the hand that’s in the center of the vehicle. By reaching across your body to the handle, your shoulders automatically start to turn. You will have an extra moment and a better angle to see approaching cyclists.
Cyclist Tips For Reducing the Chances of a Dooring Incident
While drivers are required to look for others, there are still steps we cyclists can take to try to help prevent these accidents. We, too, need to be aware of our surroundings and follow general cycling safety tips. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Wear bright-colored clothing and have bike lights so that you are more visible.
- Ride at a reasonable speed and offer a wide berth to vehicles and pedestrians.
- If you’re not certain a driver has seen you, try to have them hear you. Shout that you’re coming, or use a bell or horn to make noise.
What To Do If You’ve Been Injured in a Dooring Accident
Even if you take every precaution, doorings can still happen. Here’s what to do when you run into a car door.
While On the Scene
I know it can be hard to think straight when such a jarring situation occurs, especially if you’ve sustained injuries.
The main thing you need to remember is to get the driver and/or passenger’s information. If you were biking with friends or family, have one of them do this while you tend to any injuries. Get their name, contact details, insurance company and insurance policy number.
While you’re there, take pictures of the area. Capture the street, structures and traffic in the area. Most importantly, take pictures of any damage to their car or your bike. You can also take pictures of your injuries, though medical records will be helpful here.
After The Accident
First and foremost, take care of your injuries. Get medical attention if needed.
As soon as you’re able, call a lawyer. You’ll want someone experienced in these types of claims and who will take your injuries and situation as seriously as you do.
Even if you’re not injured, getting a lawyer is a good idea. Some injuries become more apparent over time. You may be entitled to compensation for replacing your bike, loss of income (if you miss work due to the accident) or other pain and suffering.
Get An Experienced Cyclist and Lawyer To Fight For Your Rights
At Brazil Sweeney Law Group, we will fight for your right to compensation. I have seen the damage that can occur from a dooring, and I want to help fellow cyclists recover both financially and physically. Reach out today for a free, no-obligation consultation.