Seeking Compensation After A Dooring Accident

A motorcycle dooring accident happens when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of a motorcyclist, and if you have been the victim of a dooring accident, our Indianapolis, IN motorcycle accident lawyer is here to help you. These incidents often occur in busy city streets or near parked vehicles, and the results can be severe. Riders may suffer broken bones, spinal injuries, or head trauma even at low speeds. When a careless driver causes this type of crash, the injured motorcyclist has the right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.

With over 50 years of combined experience, recognition as Super Lawyers from 2015 to 2025, and more than $70 million recovered for our clients, you can trust Pavlack Law, LLC with your case. Contact our firm today.

How Dooring Accidents Happen

Dooring accidents usually occur when drivers or passengers fail to look for approaching motorcycles before opening a door. In many cases, the person exiting the vehicle claims they did not see the rider coming. Motorcycles are smaller and easier to overlook, which makes these collisions common in areas with heavy traffic or parallel parking. Poor visibility, distracted behavior, and lack of awareness all contribute to the risk.

Who May Be Liable After A Dooring Accident

Liability in a dooring accident typically falls on the person who opened the car door, though other parties may share responsibility. For example, if a rideshare passenger caused the collision, the driver’s company could also face liability under certain conditions. If the crash occurred in an area with unsafe street design or poor signage, a city or property owner might be involved. Determining fault requires reviewing the scene, witness statements, and any available video footage. Our attorney will investigate your accident and gather evidence in order to prove liability.

Proving Negligence

To recover compensation, the injured rider must show that the other party acted negligently. This means proving the person failed to take reasonable care before opening the door. Evidence such as police reports, photographs, and medical records can support a claim. In some cases, accident reconstruction specialists and witness statements may also help clarify what happened. The goal is to establish that the driver’s or passenger’s carelessness directly caused the motorcyclist’s injuries.

Recoverable Damages

Compensation in a motorcycle dooring case can cover both economic and non-economic losses. Economic damages include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, property damage, and lost wages. Non-economic damages address pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. The total value of a claim depends on the severity of the injuries and their long-term impact.

Steps To Take After A Dooring Accident

After a dooring crash, it’s important to document everything as soon as possible. Riders should take photos of the scene, get the names of witnesses, and seek immediate medical attention. Reporting the incident to the police creates an official record, which can be valuable in a personal injury claim.

We understand the serious toll a motorcycle dooring accident can take. Our team works to hold negligent drivers accountable and help injured riders recover fair compensation for their losses. If you’ve been hurt in a dooring crash, we’re here to guide you through each step of the process and pursue the recovery you deserve. Contact Pavlack Law, LLC today to schedule a consultation.