Dooring accidents are one of the most common and preventable types of bicycle crashes in California. They occur when a driver or passenger opens a vehicle door into the path of a passing cyclist, leaving the rider with zero time to react.
California's Anti-Dooring Law
Under CVC §22517, no person may open a vehicle door on the traffic side unless it is reasonably safe to do so and can be done without interfering with traffic. Violation of this statute is per se negligence — meaning the person who opened the door is automatically at fault.
The Dutch Reach Solution
Many countries teach the 'Dutch Reach' — opening the car door with the hand furthest from the door, which forces the driver to turn and look for approaching cyclists. While California doesn't mandate it, failure to check for cyclists before opening a door violates CVC §22517.
Common Dooring Injuries
Cyclists struck by car doors suffer traumatic brain injuries (even with helmets), facial and dental trauma, clavicle fractures, road rash requiring skin grafts, and spinal injuries. The sudden nature of dooring crashes means riders have no time to brace for impact.
Protecting Your Claim
Photograph the car door (note the angle and how far it was opened), document the bike lane or road position, preserve your helmet if damaged, and get witness information. Contact Bond Legal at (866) 423-7724 for a free consultation.
