A car door can pose a serious risk to passing motorcyclists. When someone opens a door without checking for traffic, a rider may have little time to react. The crash can cause broken bones, head injuries and other harm.
Maryland law sets rules for opening vehicle doors near moving traffic. A person who opens a door without taking proper care may be held liable for a crash. The outcome depends on the facts of the case.
Legal duty to check before opening doors
Maryland Transportation Code § 21-1105 prohibits opening a vehicle door on the side available to moving traffic unless it is reasonably safe and will not interfere with traffic. This rule helps protect motorcyclists and other road users from preventable collisions.
The circumstances matter when determining whether someone violated this law. Street parking can create particular risks because moving traffic passes close to parked vehicles. Drivers and passengers should check their surroundings and look for approaching motorcycles before opening a door.
How courts determine fault in dooring cases
Courts examine the actions of everyone involved to determine whether negligence caused the collision. Evidence may include witness statements, police reports, photographs and vehicle damage. These details can help establish how the collision occurred and whether the person opening the door took reasonable precautions.
A driver who opens a door unsafely may be held liable for resulting injuries. However, Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence rule. If a motorcyclist’s own negligence contributed to the accident, it can bar recovery entirely. Whether this defense applies depends on the evidence and the circumstances of the crash.
What to do after a dooring accident
A crash with a car door can cause serious injuries and high medical bills. An injured rider may also lose income while unable to work. Keeping clear records can help show what happened and how the crash affected the rider.
After a crash, consider these steps:
- Take photos of the scene, the car door and any damage.
- Get contact details from witnesses and request a copy of the police report, if available.
- Keep medical bills, treatment records and proof of lost wages.
These records may help explain how the crash happened and show the losses it caused. Knowing Maryland’s fault rules can also help riders understand their legal options.