Winter has prevented you from heading out on your motorbike. You packed it away in storage, deciding it simply wasn’t worth the risk. Now, the weather is finally starting to turn, and you’re excited to get back out there.
While getting around on two wheels can be efficient and exhilarating, it does not come without risks. As a motorcyclist, you simply do not have the same levels of physical protection as those in vehicles. Much of the time, your safety is left in the hands of others. One mistake from them can leave you in a world of trouble.
Dooring accidents are just one risk you need to be wary of. What is a dooring accident and how do they happen?
Careless parking
You may be following all the rules and fully alert to your surroundings. Sadly, this may not be the case for those around you. Drivers often park carelessly if they have to dash in and out of a store or other business. If they are in a hurry, then ensuring that the coast is clear might not be a top priority for them. If they open their door without bothering to look, they could cause a motorcyclist or bicyclist to crash, fall and suffer severe injuries.
Weather conditions
Summer may be on the horizon, but that doesn’t mean the weather is always going to be crystal clear. Fog or a torrential downpour might have landed all of a sudden, making visibility more problematic. The same also applies at nighttime, when it can be tricky to get a clear view of what’s coming.
Drivers must ensure that they double-check their surroundings before opening the door and exiting their vehicle. As a motorcyclist, you may also consider wearing bright clothing to make yourself stand out as much as possible.
Motorcyclists are as entitled to remain safe as other road users. If your safety has been compromised and you’ve suffered injuries as the result of a collision with another vehicle, you might want to consider the legal options at your disposal.