Legal Fighters - Accident Attorneys

Accidents Involving Parked Cars and Open Doors in California

Accidents involving parked cars and open doors can happen in the blink of an eye. One moment everything seems calm, and the next, disaster strikes. These incidents, known as ‘dooring accidents,’ are surprisingly common in California, where busy streets and heavy traffic increase the risk. Despite their frequency, these accidents can pose significant challenges, leaving victims physically, emotionally, and financially strained.

Whether you’re on Ventura Boulevard in the San Fernando Valley, parked near The Americana at Brand in Glendale, or picking up groceries at Ralphs in Los Angeles, the risks posed by sudden door-open car accidents are very real.

Table of Contents

What Is a Parked Car Open Door Accident?

A parked car open door accident occurs when someone opens their car door into the path of another vehicle, cyclist, or pedestrian without first checking that it’s safe to do so. The consequences can range from minor scrapes to severe physical injuries and even fatalities. The danger lies in how suddenly these events occur, giving victims little or no time to react.

For example, imagine driving down Santa Monica Boulevard when a passenger in a parked car throws open their door unexpectedly. You swerve to avoid hitting the door but end up colliding with another vehicle or losing control entirely. Alternatively, picture being a cyclist on your daily commute near Griffith Park, only to have a car door open into your bike lane, leaving you no choice but to crash.

These accidents don’t just happen in busy urban centers. From suburban streets in Burbank to coastal highways near Malibu, they are a statewide problem that affects drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.

Are There Laws Against Open Doors in Parked Cars in California?

Lawyer and client shake hands during consultation

Yes, California has specific laws to address open doors in parked cars. Under California Vehicle Code § 22517, it is illegal to open the door of a vehicle on the side exposed to moving traffic unless it is safe to do so. This means you must check for approaching vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians before opening your car door. The law also mandates that vehicle doors remain open only as long as necessary to minimize the risk of accidents.

The purpose of this regulation is to prevent dangerous situations, such as cyclists crashing into open doors or vehicles abruptly swerving to avoid them. By following this law, drivers and passengers help ensure the safety of everyone on the road, minimizing avoidable injuries and disruptions.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Parked car open door accidents can affect anyone, but certain groups—cyclists, motorists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians—are especially vulnerable:

Cyclists

Cyclists are particularly vulnerable in dooring accidents. California is home to a thriving cycling culture, with popular bike lanes extending through neighborhoods like Venice Beach and urban hubs like Downtown Los Angeles. The small size and speed of bicycles make it easy for drivers or passengers to overlook them when opening car doors. Colliding with an open car door can fling a cyclist into traffic, causing even more catastrophic injuries.

Motorists

While much of the conversation around dooring accidents focuses on cyclists, drivers of moving vehicles are also significantly affected. Someone opening a car door on a tight city street—for instance, near the Beverly Center—can force oncoming drivers to swerve dangerously or crash into the door. Not only does this damage the vehicle, but it also jeopardizes the safety of its occupants.

Motorcyclists

Motorcyclists face unique risks in these situations. The lack of physical barriers around motorcycles means that accidents involving open doors can lead to serious injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, and internal damage. A single dooring accident could potentially leave a motorcyclist unable to ride again.

Pedestrians

Pedestrians, particularly those walking close to parked cars, are not immune to these hazards. Areas with narrower sidewalks, like parts of Pasadena, see higher risks of walkers being struck by car doors. Children and individuals with limited mobility are especially at risk, as they may not have the reflexes or space to avoid an abruptly opened door.

What Injuries Are Common in Dooring Accidents?

car accident injury

The injuries resulting from an open door accident can vary widely depending on the circumstances, but they are often severe enough to disrupt someone’s life significantly. Common injuries include:

  • Bone Fractures: Colliding with a car door or being thrown to the ground can easily break or fracture bones, especially the arms, wrists, and ribs.
  • Head Injuries: Cyclists and motorcyclists without helmets can suffer trauma if their head strikes the door or another hard surface. Even with a helmet, concussions are common.
  • Spinal Cord Damage: Victims who are thrown forcefully from bicycles or motorcycles may experience back and neck injuries that can lead to permanent mobility challenges.
  • Lacerations and Bruises: Glass, metal, and asphalt can cause cuts and scrapes. While some are superficial, others require surgeries or stitches.
  • Mental Trauma: Beyond the physical injuries, many dooring accident victims develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), fearing similar situations in the future. Daily travel becomes an overwhelming task.

What Causes These Accidents?

There are several key reasons why parked car open door accidents happen. 

  1. Negligence: Negligence is the leading cause, as drivers and passengers frequently fail to check their surroundings before opening car doors. Something as simple as glancing in a side mirror could prevent countless accidents.
  2. Distracted Driving or Parking: Activities like texting, taking calls, or tidying up the interior of a car while parked can cause individuals to open their doors carelessly.
  3. Improper Parking: Poorly parked cars force other drivers to pass dangerously close, increasing the likelihood of coming into contact with an open door.
  4. Lack of Bike Infrastructure: Some areas lack designated bike lanes, placing cyclists too close to parked vehicles. While Los Angeles County has made strides in improving bike lanes, gaps still exist.

What Can You Do After a Dooring Accident?

If you’ve been involved in a dooring accident, it can be overwhelming to know what steps to take. However, acting quickly and precisely can make all the difference in the outcome of your case and your recovery.

Ensure Immediate Safety and Call Emergency Services

Make sure you’re safe from ongoing traffic, call 911 to report the accident, and request medical assistance if needed. A formal police report can serve as crucial evidence in proving fault later.

Seek Medical Attention

Some injuries might not be immediately obvious. Even if you feel fine, it’s a good idea to get checked out by a medical professional. Documentation of your injuries is also vital for any legal claims.

Gather Evidence

If you’re physically able, gather as much evidence as you can at the scene. Take photos of the car door, vehicle damage, your injuries, and the overall surroundings (for example, street signs and bike lanes). Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.

Notify Your Insurance Company

File a claim with your insurance company and provide them with a detailed description of the accident. However, be cautious—insurance companies often try to minimize settlements. Provide facts but avoid speculating or admitting fault.

Consult Legal Help Early

Navigating the legal and insurance processes after a dooring accident can be confusing, especially when you’re focused on healing. Lawyers experienced in personal injury cases can help ensure you receive fair compensation. From negotiating with the at-fault party’s insurer to fighting for your rights in court if necessary, qualified legal representation can be a game-changer.

How Compensation Works in Dooring Accidents

Hand with pen pointing to damages word on the paper

Being involved in a dooring accident can throw life into disarray. Medical bills pile up, income is lost, and repairing or replacing damaged property adds to the financial pressure. Seeking compensation after such an accident is crucial—not out of greed, but as a way to reclaim stability and move forward. Compensation is designed to alleviate the financial burdens caused by someone else’s negligence.

Victims of dooring accidents may be entitled to several types of damages, including but not limited to:

  • Medical Expenses: This includes immediate treatment costs, such as emergency care and surgeries, as well as long-term expenses like ongoing therapy, rehabilitation, or medication.
  • Lost Wages: Whether you miss work temporarily or are unable to return to your job due to injury, compensation can cover your lost income.
  • Reduced Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from earning at the same level in the future, you can claim damages for diminished earning potential.
  • Pain and Suffering: Beyond financial losses, courts consider the physical pain and mental anguish caused by the accident. This can include emotional trauma or PTSD that affects your quality of life.
  • Property Damage: Whether it’s your car, bike, or motorcycle, you can seek compensation for repair or replacement costs.

While California law offers pathways for victims to recover damages, navigating the claims process can be complex and overwhelming, particularly when dealing with insurance companies. It’s essential to recognize that insurers rarely have your best interests in mind. Their aim is often to minimize payouts, which can leave victims without enough resources to recover fully.

The Importance of Legal Representation After an Open Door Accident

After an open door accident, many victims find themselves overwhelmed—not just by the physical and emotional toll of the incident, but also by the financial and legal complexities that follow. Obtaining the compensation you deserve can be a daunting process, especially when you’re up against insurance companies or negligent parties trying to minimize their responsibility. This is where having experienced legal representation can make all the difference.

Gathering Evidence

A skilled personal injury attorney serves as your advocate, standing by your side every step of the way. From the moment you enlist their help, they take on the burden of navigating the legal system, allowing you to focus on healing. One of the key roles they play is in gathering critical evidence to strengthen your claim. Whether it’s securing accident reports, eyewitness accounts, medical records, or even surveillance footage from nearby businesses, an attorney knows what is needed to build a compelling case.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can feel like an uphill battle. Adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line, often employing tactics to minimize your settlement or even deny your claim outright. Without legal knowledge, it’s easy to fall victim to these strategies. An experienced lawyer will handle all communications with insurers, negotiating firmly to ensure that you’re treated fairly and compensated fully for your losses.

Understanding Complex Laws

A legal professional understands the nuances of California’s liability and personal injury laws, which can be complex for those unfamiliar with them. They’ll determine who is at fault, calculate the full extent of your damages, and fight to ensure you’re not shortchanged. Should the situation escalate and require a trial, a seasoned attorney will represent you in court, leaving no stone unturned to secure justice.

Ultimately, hiring a skilled attorney isn’t just about winning a settlement—it’s about protecting your rights, leveling the playing field against insurance companies, and giving you the peace of mind to move forward. With skilled legal guidance, you can face the aftermath of an open door accident with strength and confidence.

How to Take Control After an Accident

If you or a loved one has been involved in a parked car open door accident in California, you need a trusted car accident lawyer on your side. When someone else’s carelessness causes harm, you should not have to bear the burden of the consequences alone.

At Legal Fighters, we believe that securing compensation is about more than just money—it’s about regaining control and allowing victims to move forward. With over 2.5 billion recovered and counting, we’ve helped thousands across Glendale, Los Angeles, and beyond fight for justice. 

Your victory starts here. Contact us today at (800) 210-0000 or through our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us stand by your side every step of the way.