Understanding Motorcycle Dooring Accidents
Motorcycle dooring accidents occur when a parked driver or passenger opens their vehicle door into the path of an oncoming motorcyclist. In congested urban environments, this can be a devastating and avoidable accident, often resulting in severe injuries to the rider.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle dooring accident, understanding your legal rights is crucial. At Scholle Law, our experienced Georgia motorcycle accident lawyers can help determine who is at fault and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Why Do Motorcycle Dooring Accidents Happen?
Dooring accidents happen when a vehicle occupant fails to check for approaching traffic before opening their door. Common causes include:
- Distracted vehicle occupants who neglect to check their mirrors before opening a door.
- Poor visibility due to parked cars, city layouts, or low lighting.
- Failure to use the “Dutch Reach” method, where drivers use their opposite hand to open the door, naturally turning their body to check for oncoming vehicles.
- Rushed delivery drivers or rideshare passengers exiting quickly without looking.
Who is Liable in a Motorcycle Dooring Accident?
In most cases, the person who opens the vehicle door is at fault because they have a legal responsibility to check for oncoming traffic before exiting. However, liability may also extend to:
- The driver of the vehicle – If the driver parked in a hazardous or illegal manner, making a dooring accident more likely.
- A rideshare or taxi company – If a passenger exits into traffic without warning and the driver failed to properly instruct them.
- The municipality – If poor roadway design or signage contributed to the accident.
At Scholle Law, our team investigates all factors to ensure the responsible party is held accountable.
How to Prove Fault in a Motorcycle Dooring Accident
Proving fault in a motorcycle dooring case requires strong evidence. Our legal team gathers key pieces of evidence, such as:
1. Police Reports
- If law enforcement responds to the scene, the police report may indicate the vehicle occupant’s failure to check for approaching motorcycles.
2. Eyewitness Testimony
- Bystanders or other drivers may have seen the occupant open the door without looking.
3. Traffic Camera or Surveillance Footage
- Urban areas often have security or traffic cameras that can capture the incident.
4. Vehicle and Motorcycle Damage Analysis
- The location and severity of damage can help prove how the accident occurred.
5. Medical Records
- Documenting injuries sustained can help establish the severity of the crash and support a claim for damages.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Victims of motorcycle dooring accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses – Hospital bills, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
- Lost wages – If injuries prevent you from returning to work.
- Pain and suffering – Compensation for emotional and physical distress.
- Property damage – Repairs or replacement of your motorcycle.
- Punitive damages – In cases of gross negligence, such as reckless behavior by a vehicle occupant.
At Scholle Law, we aggressively pursue maximum compensation for injured motorcyclists.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Dooring Accident
If you were involved in a motorcycle dooring accident, take these steps to protect your legal rights:
- Call 911 and report the accident.
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle door position, and your injuries.
- Obtain witness contact information for potential testimony.
- Avoid speaking to the at-fault party’s insurance company before consulting a lawyer.
- Contact Scholle Law for a free case evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I still file a claim if the vehicle occupant claims they didn’t see me?
Yes. The law requires vehicle occupants to check for traffic before opening a door. Their failure to do so is negligence, and Scholle Law can help prove fault.
How long do I have to file a claim in Georgia?
Georgia’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the accident date. Starting the process early helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.
Can a rideshare company be held responsible if their passenger caused the accident?
Yes, in certain cases. If a rideshare driver failed to ensure safe exiting practices or if company policies contributed to the incident, Scholle Law can pursue a claim against the company.
Will my insurance cover my injuries if the at-fault party doesn’t have coverage?
If the at-fault driver or passenger is uninsured, you may be able to seek compensation through your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. Scholle Law can help navigate your options.
Why You Need an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Insurance companies often try to downplay motorcycle accident claims or shift blame onto the rider. At Scholle Law, we:
- Investigate thoroughly to establish fault.
- Handle all negotiations to secure full compensation.
- Take your case to trial if insurers refuse to offer a fair settlement.
With decades of experience representing injured motorcyclists in Georgia, we know how to win cases against negligent drivers and corporate insurers.
Contact Scholle Law for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle dooring accident, don’t face the legal process alone. Call Scholle Law today at (866) 592-1296 or visit our website to schedule a free consultation.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing until you win your case.
Let Scholle Law fight for the compensation you deserve.