Most people assume that cars are the biggest hazards to bicyclists. While there’s no doubt that moving vehicles pose a substantial threat to cyclists, parked cars may be just as dangerous. When a parked vehicle opens its driver’s side door in front of an oncoming cyclist, the cyclist may hit the door, or swerve to avoid it, losing control of the bike. Injuries from a door zone accident can be severe.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
A cyclist’s head is one of the most vulnerable parts of the body, especially when a helmet isn’t worn. When a cyclist makes contact with an open car door, or swerves to avoid a car door, they may fall, sustaining major trauma to the skull. When this happens, the cyclist may be at risk of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that may result in coma; brain death; seizures; infections, nerve damage, intellectual problems; behavior changes; sensory problems, and more, according to the MayoClinic.org.
Broken Bone Injuries
A cyclist who falls usually reaches for the ground to break the fall. As such, wrist, arm, and collarbone fractures are extremely common. While the three fracture types above, are usually correctable with splinting or surgery, other, more severe broken bone injuries may cause permanent injury. For example, a fracture in the back could potentially cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in partial or full paralysis.
Superficial Face and Skin Injuries
Other types of injuries that a cyclist who’s in a “dooring” accident may sustain are superficial wounds to the face and skin, including road rash, bruises, lacerations and cuts. While the word “superficial” is used to describe the external nature of these wounds, the injuries can be very serious, and may even lead to permanent disfigurement or scarring.
Speak with an Accident Attorney in Kirkland
An accident caused by a car’s door can lead to traumatic injuries. If this has happened to you, and as a result, you’ve required expensive medical care, you have options for compensation. At Max Meyers Law PLLC, our Kirkland bicycle accident attorneys are ready to speak with you about your options for filing a claim, which must be done within three years’ time according to RCW 4.16.080.
We understand that your accident has changed your life. To help you sort through what to do next, call us today at 425-399-7000.