Motorcycle riders face several dangers on the road, some of them including dooring accidents. A dooring accident is when a vehicle’s door swings open unexpectedly and strikes a motorcycle passing by. Recent statistics suggest that motorcycle fatalities are on the rise, with a 200% increase as compared to the previous year. Such reports can be disturbing.

In Nevada, about 20% of all road accidents involve motorcycles. While some may think that motorcycle accidents are not as bad, they can have life-altering consequences. These include permanent disabilities and even death. To prevent such incidents, motorcyclists must protect themselves by being extra vigilant on the road.

Las Vegas laws place a responsibility on drivers to check for motorcyclists before opening their doors. If you were injured in a dooring accident, you can potentially hold the driver liable for being negligent. Hiring the help of a Las Vegas motorcycle accident attorney becomes crucial when your health and finances are at stake.

Tips to avoid dooring accidents in Las Vegas

Maintain a safe distance from parked cars.

One of the safest methods to avoid dooring accidents in Las Vegas is to maintain a safe distance from parked vehicles. When riding your motorcycle, make sure not to be within three feet of a parked car where the doors can swing open. Aim to ride as far from the “door zone” as possible.

Expect the unexpected.

If you think that the person in the car is being mindful of their surroundings and would not open the door suddenly, you are wrong. Always expect the other person to be less aware. Approach parked cars with caution and slow down when you get near them.

If you see that the driver is preparing to exit the car or open the door, move away or slow down. Drivers and passengers often forget to check for cyclists when opening doors. So, keep this in mind to protect your safety.

Be alert about other indicators.

You can get indicators about someone opening the door when you ride. For instance, shadows on the pavement may signal movement from inside the car, or brake lights might say that the vehicle has stopped and the passengers might exit it now. One might think this is overdoing, but it is important to stay safe as a motorcyclist.

Use the Dutch Reach method.

While you cannot utilize this method as a motorcyclist, you can spread awareness. Teach and encourage your friends, family, and fellow motorists to use the “Dutch Reach” method when exiting a vehicle. This method involves using the hand furthest from the car door to open it so that you are forced to look outside before you open the door. This allows the exiting passenger to check for motorcyclists.

Consider the weather and time of the day.

Weather conditions can affect your ability to see and be seen. The risk of dooring accidents significantly increases during foggy and dark conditions as the car passenger would not be able to see you even if they tried. Be more careful during the night and in foggy winters.

Wear protective gear.

Finally, it is crucial to wear protective gear while riding a motorcycle. Invest in quality gear such as helmets, jackets, and padded clothing. In the case of an accident, these materials will absorb the impact and protect you from harsh injuries. While wearing protective gear does not guarantee that you will not be in an accident, it does provide a layer of safety.

Get justice today!

Unfortunately, passenger vehicle riders do not check for cyclists before opening their doors. Something like this can cause severe injuries to motorcyclists. If you or your loved one was in a dooring accident in Las Vegas, hire a motorcycle accident attorney today!