Cycling is not only a popular mode of transportation but also a great way to stay healthy and reduce our carbon footprint. However, biking in urban environments like Kansas City can be challenging, with its own set of risks. One of the lesser-known but potentially hazardous situations for bikers is getting “doored.” Dooring occurs when a cyclist is struck by a car door that is suddenly opened into their path. In such cases, determining liability is crucial for those who have been injured.
Hollis Law Firm is here to support you. Our experienced team understands the complexities of such cases and is dedicated to fighting for the rights and compensation of injured cyclists. With our legal expertise, negotiation skills, and unwavering commitment to justice, we stand ready to be your ally in holding the responsible party accountable for their negligence.
Table of Contents
Understanding Dooring Accidents and Who Is Liable for Damages?
Dooring accidents typically happen when a person inside a parked vehicle opens their car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist, causing a collision. These accidents can result in various degrees of injuries to the cyclist, from minor scrapes and bruises to more severe injuries, including fractures, concussions, and spinal cord damage. It is important to note that the liability for dooring accidents largely hinges on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Driver’s Negligence
In most cases, the driver or occupant of the vehicle is liable for a dooring accident. They have a duty to ensure that it is safe to open their car door without causing harm to others. If they fail to check for oncoming traffic, they can be held responsible for the resulting injuries to the cyclist.
Comparative Negligence
Liability may not always rest solely on the driver. In some cases, the cyclist may have been riding too close to parked cars or at an excessive speed, contributing to the accident. Kansas City follows a comparative negligence system, which means that the responsibility for the accident may be shared between the driver and the cyclist, with each party’s compensation adjusted accordingly.
Parking Regulations
Kansas City has specific parking regulations aimed at preventing dooring accidents. If a vehicle is parked in violation of these regulations, the owner may be found liable. This could include parking too close to the bike lane or failing to exercise caution when opening a door.
Car Manufacturer Liability
In rare cases, if a defect in the vehicle’s design contributed to the accident, the car manufacturer may be held liable. This could involve issues related to the door’s design or safety features.
Determining liability in dooring accidents can be complex and often involves considering various factors, including witness testimonies, police reports, and any available video footage of the incident. Seeking legal counsel is crucial to ensuring the liable party is held accountable for their negligence.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer Today
When a biker is doored, the responsible party should be held accountable for the injuries and damages caused. Whether the driver, cyclist, or car manufacturer is found liable, the goal is to ensure that justice is served and compensation is provided to cover the medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering of the injured cyclist. Seeking legal representation from a knowledgeable personal injury attorney is crucial to navigating the complexities of liability and pursuing a fair and just resolution.
Don’t let the negligence of others derail your life. Contact Hollis Law Firm today for a free consultation, and let us fight for your right to fair compensation. Your physical well-being and financial stability matter, and Hollis Law Firm is here to ensure that those responsible for the dooring accident are held accountable, providing you with the compensation and closure you need to regain control of your life. Schedule a consultation today by calling (800) 701-3672 or completing our contact form.
