Motorcycle accidents happen often in busy cities like Chicago. With heavy traffic, narrow streets, and many parked cars, riders face a lot of risks every day. Even a small mistake from another person can cause a serious crash.
One danger that’s becoming more common is when someone opens a car door right in front of a moving motorcycle. This kind of accident is called a “dooring” accident. It might seem like a small thing, but it can lead to serious injuries for motorcyclists.
Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see, which makes dooring accidents more likely. People in cars often forget to check for motorcycles before opening their doors. That simple action can be very dangerous for riders.
Raising awareness about this issue is important. Many riders and drivers still don’t realize how serious these accidents can be or how to avoid them.
Hurt in a car dooring accident while riding your motorcycle? Call our experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Chicago at Phillips Law Offices today. We’re here to help—just dial (312) 598-0917 for a free consultation.
What Is a Dooring Accident?
A dooring accident happens when someone inside a parked car opens their door into the path of a moving motorcycle. Since motorcycles move fast and don’t have much protection, hitting a door can throw the rider off the bike.
This type of accident usually happens on streets where cars are parked on the side and motorcycles pass close to those parked cars. All it takes is one driver or passenger not checking before opening a door.
In Chicago, this is a common problem because there are so many parked cars along busy roads. Motorcyclists often ride close to the parked lane to avoid traffic, which puts them in the danger zone for open doors.
Many people think dooring accidents only affect cyclists, but motorcyclists can suffer even worse injuries. That’s why it’s important to understand how and why these crashes happen.
How Common Are Dooring Accidents in Chicago?
Dooring accidents happen more often than people realize. While most reports focus on bicyclists, many motorcycle dooring incidents go unreported or are grouped under general motorcycle crashes.
In recent years, Chicago has seen an increase in these accidents due to growing traffic and more parked cars along busy streets. Some neighborhoods, especially downtown and areas near public transit stops, have higher numbers of reported incidents.
Streets like Milwaukee Avenue, Logan Square, and parts of Lincoln Park are known hotspots. These are areas where traffic moves fast, and drivers are in a hurry, often not looking before opening their doors.
Even though exact numbers can be hard to track, local traffic studies and news reports show that dooring is a serious problem that needs more attention from both riders and drivers.
Illinois Law on Opening Car Doors
In Illinois, the law is clear — it’s illegal to open a car door into moving traffic if it isn’t safe. The law says drivers and passengers must look before opening a door to make sure no one is coming.
If a dooring accident happens, the person who opened the door is usually at fault. That means they could be held responsible for injuries or damage caused by the crash.
This law is in place to protect people on bikes and motorcycles, who are more exposed and at higher risk of injury. Drivers and passengers need to be more careful, especially in busy areas.
Knowing this law can help riders understand their rights. It also reminds drivers that opening a door is not just a small action — it can cause a serious accident if they’re not paying attention.
Injuries and Impact on Motorcyclists
When a motorcyclist hits an open car door, the injuries can be serious. Some riders are thrown off the bike, landing hard on the ground or even sliding into other cars. These accidents often result in broken bones, cuts, or head injuries.
Even if the crash doesn’t look severe, the impact can still cause lasting problems. Back and neck pain, joint injuries, or head trauma may take months or even years to heal fully.
In the worst cases, riders suffer permanent damage that affects their daily life. Some may not be able to work or ride again. The emotional toll can also be heavy, with many riders feeling anxious about getting back on the road.
That’s why dooring accidents are not just minor mishaps. They can turn a normal ride into a life-changing event in just a few seconds.
What To Do After a Motorcycle Dooring Accident in Chicago
If you’re in a dooring accident, your safety comes first. Move away from traffic if you can and check yourself for injuries. Call 911 right away, even if the injuries seem small.
Try to get a police report at the scene. This report is important if you need to file an insurance claim or take legal action later. Be sure to tell the officer exactly what happened and mention the open door.
Take photos of the scene — the bike, the car, the door, any injuries, and the location. Get contact details of the driver and any witnesses who saw the accident.
It’s also smart to see a doctor after the crash. Some injuries don’t show up right away, and medical records can help you later if you need compensation.
Compensation and Legal Options
If you were injured in a dooring accident, you may be able to get compensation. This can include payment for your medical bills, lost wages if you missed work, and money for your pain and stress.
Yes, you can sue the person who opened the door if they caused the accident. Illinois law supports this kind of legal claim, especially if you were following the rules of the road.
A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your options. They can handle paperwork, talk to insurance companies, and make sure you get what you deserve.
Getting legal help can make a big difference. Many riders don’t know their rights or how much their case might be worth until they speak to a lawyer.
Preventive Tips for Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists can take a few smart steps to lower the risk of dooring accidents. When riding near parked cars, keep a little distance whenever possible. Staying just a few feet farther out can give you more time to react.
Watch for signs that someone might open a door — a person inside the car, brake lights, or movement in the side mirror. These clues can help you slow down or move over in time.
Wearing proper safety gear is also very important. A good helmet, jacket, gloves, and knee pads can protect you if something goes wrong. A helmet camera can also record your ride and help in legal cases.
Defensive riding isn’t about being scared — it’s about being alert and smart. A few seconds of awareness can save you from a serious crash.
How Drivers Can Help Prevent Dooring Accidents
Drivers play a big part in stopping dooring accidents. One easy habit is using the “Dutch Reach.” This means using your far hand — your right hand if you’re the driver — to open the door. This makes your body turn so you automatically look behind you.
This small change can help you notice approaching motorcycles and bikes before you open the door. It’s simple and very effective.
There are also awareness campaigns in Chicago that teach drivers about dooring dangers. These efforts aim to make streets safer for everyone.
By being careful and paying attention, drivers can protect others and avoid accidents that could hurt someone badly.
Contact Chicago Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you’ve been in a motorcycle dooring accident, getting the right legal help is important. At Phillips Law Offices, we understand how these accidents happen and how badly they can affect your life.
Our team is here to help you get fair compensation for your injuries and losses. We’ll guide you through every step and fight to get you the support you need.
You don’t have to figure this out on your own. We’ve helped many people in Chicago with motorcycle crash claims, and we’re ready to help you too.
Contact Chicago motorcycle accident attorney today to talk about your case. Your recovery and your rights matter — and we’re here to stand by your side.
Interesting Reads:
Can You Sue a Car Manufacturer?
The Risks of Dooring : How to Avoid and Stay safe
What percentage of motorcycle riders get in accidents?
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