Motorcycle riders in Vermont face risks that car drivers often don’t even consider—like dooring accidents. A motorcycle dooring crash occurs when a vehicle occupant opens a door directly into the path of an oncoming rider. These incidents are sudden, dangerous, and often preventable. If you've been injured in this type of crash, knowing what to do next can make a real difference in your recovery—both physical and financial.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about motorcycle dooring accidents in Vermont, including your rights, how liability is determined, and how a motorcycle accident lawyer can help you seek compensation.
What Is a Motorcycle Dooring Accident?
A motorcycle dooring accident happens when a motorist or passenger opens a car door into the path of a motorcycle rider, causing a collision. These crashes are common in urban areas where motorcycles share narrow streets with parked vehicles, but they can also occur in suburban or rural settings with limited shoulder space.
Unlike cars or trucks, motorcycles lack protective structures. When a door suddenly swings open in front of a rider, they have little time to react. Riders may be thrown from the bike, collide directly with the door, or swerve into traffic to avoid it—often leading to severe or even fatal injuries.
Why Dooring Crashes Are Especially Dangerous for Motorcyclists
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and similar safety agencies have long recognized the vulnerability of motorcyclists. Without airbags, crumple zones, or seat belts, the risk of serious injury is significantly higher.
In dooring accidents, the force of impact can easily:
- Fracture bones
- Cause spinal cord injuries
- Lead to traumatic brain injuries
- Result in permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Cause fatal injuries, even at relatively low speeds
Motorcycle dooring accidents are entirely preventable—yet they still happen because of inattention, illegal parking behavior, or failure to follow Vermont’s traffic safety rules.
Who's at Fault in a Vermont Motorcycle Dooring Accident?
In Vermont, fault in a motorcycle dooring accident is typically assigned to the person who opened the vehicle door—often a driver or passenger who failed to check for oncoming traffic.
Under Vermont law, it's illegal to open a car door unless it’s reasonably safe to do so and it doesn’t interfere with other traffic. This means:
- Drivers must check mirrors and blind spots before opening a door.
- Passengers should be instructed to do the same.
- Opening a door into the path of a motorcyclist is considered a form of negligence.
However, fault isn’t always clear-cut. Insurance companies may try to blame the motorcyclist for speeding, lane-splitting, or failing to wear protective gear. That’s where working with a knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney becomes critical.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Dooring Accident in Vermont
If you're involved in a motorcycle dooring crash, take the following steps to protect your health and your potential claim:
- Get Medical Attention Immediately – Even if you feel okay, injuries like concussions or internal trauma may not be obvious right away.
- Call the Police – A police report can document the incident, which is helpful when filing an insurance claim.
- Take Photos – Capture the position of the motorcycle, the car, the open door, skid marks, and any visible injuries.
- Gather Witness Information – Independent witnesses can provide critical evidence if there’s a dispute over how the crash occurred.
- Avoid Giving a Recorded Statement – Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim. It’s better to speak with an attorney first.
How a Vermont Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
Hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer early can make a significant difference in how your case plays out. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney will:
- Investigate the cause of the crash
- Identify liable parties (including the driver, passenger, or even the car owner)
- Collect witness statements, surveillance footage, and police records
- Work with medical experts to evaluate your injuries and future care needs
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Take the case to court if a fair settlement isn’t offered
Legal representation ensures that your side of the story is heard and that you aren’t taken advantage of during an emotionally and physically difficult time.
What Types of Compensation Can You Seek?
If you've been injured in a motorcycle dooring accident in Vermont, you may be eligible to receive compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Motorcycle repair or replacement
- Long-term rehabilitation or therapy
In cases involving permanent disability or wrongful death, additional damages may be pursued. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand the full value of your claim and avoid lowball settlement offers.
Understanding Vermont's Comparative Fault Rules
Vermont follows a modified comparative fault rule. That means if you are found partially responsible for the crash, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you're found to be more than 50% at fault, you won’t be able to recover damages.
This makes proper evidence collection and legal strategy all the more important. A motorcycle accident attorney can help ensure that fault is accurately assigned and your right to compensation is protected.
Preventing Future Motorcycle Dooring Accidents
While riders can’t control the actions of others, they can take steps to reduce risk:
- Ride defensively in areas with heavy street parking.
- Wear protective gear, including a DOT-approved helmet.
- Stay alert for vehicles with brake lights or passengers inside.
- Avoid riding too close to parked cars when possible.
Education and awareness campaigns—especially in Vermont cities like Burlington and Montpelier—also play a role in reducing dooring accidents.
Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help
Motorcycle dooring accidents are preventable, but when they happen, the results can be devastating. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Vermont, you don’t have to go through the aftermath alone.
Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law has extensive experience helping injured riders fight for fair compensation. We understand the unique challenges motorcycle crash victims face—and we’re ready to stand up for your rights.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you focus on healing while we handle the legal side of your recovery.