Bicycling is a great way to get around Georgetown, Texas. However, in spite of the freedom and exercise you can get from riding your bike, there are many dangers. One of them involves the sudden opening of car doors in front of you. Here is how you can avoid “dooring,” as it’s known.
How to avoid dooring when you’re riding your bicycle
To prevent motor vehicle accidents involving dooring while riding your bicycle, ride farther in the lane. Riding too close to parked cars is hazardous as someone can suddenly open a door, or a car might suddenly pull out of a parking space. While you’re riding, carefully watch the road while also remaining alert for car doors suddenly opening. Being extra alert can help prevent potential personal injury.
What should you do if you crash into a car door?
Motor vehicle accidents that involve dooring and bicycles can be serious. You might suffer serious injuries even if you don’t immediately feel hurt upon impact. If you do crash into a car door, you should remain at the scene and have the driver stay as well. Call 911 and exchange information such as name, phone number, address and email with the driver. You should also get their license plate and driver’s license number and the name of their insurance company.
Look around for witnesses and get their names and contact information. You might also want to record their statements recalling the accident. If possible, snap a few pictures of the accident scene.
Once the police and an ambulance arrive, you should give a statement when a police accident report is made. Get medical assistance as well. You might have internal injuries that can be serious if they’re left untreated. Even if you end up being fine, it’s better to get checked out than to skip it.
When you speak with the responding police officer, make sure to get their name and badge number. You should also ask them where you can obtain a copy of the accident report. You will be able to use it as part of your evidence if you file a personal injury claim against the driver.
Being as careful as possible when riding your bicycle will help prevent dooring accidents from happening. This includes being alert and wearing safety gear.
