If you’ve ever been biking down the street and suddenly had to swerve or crash because someone opened a car door right in front of you, that’s a dooring accident. These crashes can lead to serious injuries, and sadly, they’re more common than people think. The biggest problem is that they’re often unexpected. A driver or passenger swings their door open without checking for someone on a bike, and the cyclist has no time to stop.
Many people don’t know who’s at fault when this happens. If you’re the one on the bike, the damage can be physical, emotional, and financial. Medical bills stack up, your bike might be totaled, and you’re left shaken, wondering what happens next. Knowing your rights can help protect you and hold the right person accountable.
Why Cyclists Face More Risk on South Carolina Roads
South Carolina is known for its scenic routes and mild weather, which draws plenty of cyclists year-round. But with more cars on the road and cities not always built for bike safety, riders are more exposed than ever. Dooring is one of those dangers that feels like it comes out of nowhere, and it can happen even when you’re riding exactly where you’re supposed to be.
A lot of drivers and passengers just aren’t looking out for bikes. They might be in a hurry, distracted by a phone, or not aware that a cyclist is riding up alongside their parked car. When a door flies open into the path of a cyclist, it can throw the rider into traffic, into a curb, or onto the pavement. These crashes can break bones, cause head injuries, or lead to lifelong trauma.
Who Is at Fault in a Dooring Crash in South Carolina
South Carolina law requires people to open car doors with care. If someone swings their door open into traffic and causes an accident, they may be held responsible. The law says it clearly — you can’t open a car door unless it’s safe and doesn’t interfere with moving traffic, including bicycles. That means the person in the car has a duty to look before they open their door.
Founded in 1975, Christian & Christian has deep roots in the community. 
Only Serving People, Never Companies
If you’re the cyclist in a dooring crash, the driver or passenger could be found at fault. But insurance companies often try to blame the cyclist. They may claim you were riding too close to the car, going too fast, or not paying attention. That’s why it’s so important to have someone on your side who knows how the law works and who can fight for your rights.
Steps to Take After a Dooring Accident
If you’ve just been hit by a car door while biking, you’re probably in shock. But there are a few steps that can help protect you down the road. First, get medical help right away, even if you feel okay. Some injuries take time to show up. Next, call the police. Having a report helps document what happened, and it can be key when dealing with insurance later.
If you can, take photos of the scene — the car, the door, your bike, your injuries. Get names and contact info from any witnesses. And don’t talk to the other person’s insurance company without talking to a lawyer first. They may try to get you to settle quickly, and it might not be enough to cover your bills or long-term care.
Everyone there was very professional, knowledgeable, and friendly. My car was totaled, and I was a little intimidated talking with a couple of other lawyers in Greenville. But with Christian and Christian, not only did they answer my questions, but they did so in a way that made what could have been a hectic situation, easy. Overall, an excellent experience with high quality lawyers who truly go above and beyond and really try to get you the results or answers you need. I met Josh like 4 years ago when my Son was injured at Daycare. He was very concerned about the well being of my Child and Me. Very Understanding Professional and Just a great Staff. If You need a Lawyer that’s all about YOU this is the Place. I just closed a Case on 6/23/2021 from a injury on a Property. They handled everything because no one else would help Me. I’m forever grateful for Your hard Work and Time. Once again Thank You Josh and Sally. My husband was referred to this law firm from another lawyer after his mother passed away while residing in a nursing home. Matt took on his case and we are pleased with how everything turned out. It took a long, long time to finally settle, but it was worth the wait. The staff here is friendly and I’d be happy to recommend them to anyone needing legal assistance. I was referred to Harold by a family friend, and I couldn’t be happier. He took the time to listen to my case, answered all my questions and truly treated me like a friend not a client. His knowledge of medical malpractice is priceless he actually successfully won, one of the first medical malpractice cases in Greenville County.
—Rob Young
—Rezillai Henderson
— Jen
— Lindsey
What Cyclists Should Know About Their Rights
Cyclists in South Carolina have just as much right to the road as drivers. The law recognizes bicycles as vehicles. That means you have the right to ride in traffic lanes, and drivers must treat you with the same care as they would other cars. If someone opens a door and causes you harm, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, your bike, your lost wages, and your pain.
It’s also legal for cyclists to ride near parked cars. You don’t have to ride in the middle of the lane if it’s not safe. If a driver or passenger fails to check before opening their door and causes a crash, that’s not your fault.
Why Dooring Accidents Deserve Serious Legal Attention
Dooring crashes are often treated like minor fender-benders, but the injuries are far from minor. A cyclist doesn’t have a steel frame or airbags to protect them. When they’re hit, the damage is personal. Beyond broken bones or a busted bike, there’s the fear that comes with getting back on the road. You might feel nervous riding again or find yourself reliving the crash.
That’s why these cases deserve serious legal attention. It’s not just about getting a settlement — it’s about making sure your story is heard, your injuries are taken seriously, and you get the help you need to move forward.
Value of a Personal Injury Case Choosing a Personal Injury AttorneyRelated Videos
How to Protect Yourself While Riding
While the responsibility lies with the person opening the door, there are a few ways cyclists can lower their risk. When possible, ride outside the “door zone,” which is about three to four feet away from parked cars. Be extra careful when passing rows of parked vehicles. Look for brake lights, car shadows, or people inside the car. Use a mirror if you have one, and ride with both hands on the bars to stay steady in case you need to swerve.
Wearing bright clothing, using lights, and making yourself visible are always good habits. But remember, visibility doesn’t remove the risk — the real issue is careless door opening, not your ability to be seen.
Verdicts & Settlements
Why It Helps to Have a Legal Guide
Going through a dooring accident is overwhelming. You may feel powerless, angry, or unsure about what comes next. This is where having someone in your corner makes all the difference. You need someone who understands South Carolina’s cycling laws, who has handled these types of cases, and who can fight back when insurance companies try to avoid paying what you deserve.
That’s what we do at Christian & Christian Law. We help people like you get justice when someone else’s carelessness causes harm. If you’ve been hurt in a dooring accident, you don’t have to face this alone. Let us help you take the next step. Call us today and tell us what happened. You deserve to be heard — and helped.