How to Avoid “Dooring” a Bicyclist

In Chicago, bicyclists and cars regularly have to share the road with one another. During the summer in particular, urban streets often fill with bicyclists who take advantage of the nice weather to commute, exercise, or take a joy ride. Motorists must be especially careful when driving around bicyclists because even a minor collision can be devastating for a bicyclist. One of the greatest risks that bicyclists face is the risk of being “doored”, which occurs when a driver parks on the side of a street and opens a street side door without first looking for oncoming bicycle traffic.

Penalties for Dooring

Besides the risk that an inattentive driver poses to the bicyclist, the driver may also suffer a number of negative consequences if he or she hits a bicyclist with a car door. Chicago has created laws specifically designed to protect bicyclists and other vulnerable road users from unaware motorists. If you open a street side car door before it is safe to do so, you can be fined $150.

Additionally, if a collision results when you open a car door without looking, the Chicago police will fine you $500. Clearly, inattentiveness can be costly. Not only will you have to pay these steep fines, but your car door may be significantly damaged. In some cases, drivers must have the entire door replaced.

How Car Insurance Can Help

Getting caught in an accident without car insurance can be costly. Insurance protects you against unforeseen accidents and can significantly reduce the cost of repairs that you have to pay out of pocket. When driving in urban areas there is always the possibility that even a moment of distraction could result in a severe collision.

Contact Us

Don’t let yourself get caught in an unfortunate accident without the protection of car insurance coverage. For more information on the Chicago car insurance options available to you, please contact Insure on the Spot today at 773-202-5060.