Vehicles are certainly the biggest threat to bicyclists on our roads. Even when they aren’t moving, they can be dangerous. Specifically, cyclists can be seriously injured or killed by what is widely known as “dooring.”
That’s when a driver or passenger opens the car door into a traffic lane as a cyclist is approaching. While most people typically check to make sure there are no vehicles approaching before they open the door, they may not look carefully enough to notice a bicyclist.
A number of things can happen when a cyclist unexpectedly encounters an open car door. They may swerve to get out of the way and into oncoming traffic where they’re struck or run over by a driver who couldn’t avoid them. They may run into the door and get thrown into traffic, which can have the same consequences. Even if they hit the door and manage to avoid landing in traffic, that alone can lead to serious injuries.
What does Georgia law say?
Georgia law says the following about dooring: “No person shall open the door of a motor vehicle on the side available to moving traffic unless and until it is reasonably safe to do so and can be done without interfering with the movement of other traffic, nor shall any person leave a door open on the side of a vehicle available to moving traffic for a period of time longer than necessary to load or unload passengers.”
This is considered a traffic offense. However, if a cyclist is seriously injured or killed or if someone intentionally tried to harm a cyclist, they could potentially face legal consequences in addition to a civil lawsuit by the victim or surviving family.
Having experienced legal guidance can help victims and their loved ones seek fair compensation for medical bills and other expenses and damages, regardless of whether criminal charges are ever filed.