Getting doored on your bicycle can be serious. Emotions often run high at the scene of the collision. Drivers and passengers typically believe the bicyclist is at fault, and it is not uncommon for them to simply drive away.
Regardless of whether the driver stays or leaves, you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries. However, you will need the help of an experienced bicycle accident attorney like Mark Panzavecchia to help.
Determining Fault
Drivers and passengers have a duty to look for bicyclists and pedestrians before opening their doors. In most dooring crashes, the person in the car is responsible. But, it’s not automatic. You have to prove it. The driver can claim that you were at fault or partly to blame for reasons such as travelling too fast or unnecessarily close to the vehicle. Your compensation may be reduced if you are found to be partially at fault.
When the Driver Flees
Some drivers will flee the scene to avoid getting a ticket or being held responsible. Others don’t understand how the law works in this type of situation and believe that they can just leave. Either way, you may still be covered.
The first thing you should do if you were injured in a bicycle accident caused by a motor vehicle driver or passenger is to get name and contact information from all parties. You should also get the insurance policy information from the driver.
In the event that the driver flees the scene, you may still be able to recover compensation. If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, you can make a claim with your own insurance company. This is where having an experienced attorney by your side can be very helpful.
If you or someone you love has been seriously injured by dooring in New York City or Long Island, please call Mark Panzavecchia today for a free consultation and claim evaluation.