Bicycling is one of the most popular and eco-friendly ways to get around Miami. From scenic rides along Biscayne Bay to the bustling downtown streets, cyclists are an everyday part of the city’s landscape. Unfortunately, with the growing number of cyclists comes an increase in accidents and one of the most common is the “dooring†accident.
A dooring accident happens when a driver or passenger suddenly opens a car door into the path of an oncoming cyclist. These incidents may seem minor but can cause severe, life-altering injuries. If you’ve been struck by an opening car door while riding, you may be wondering: Can I sue for my injuries?
The answer is yes — in many cases, you can pursue compensation from the negligent driver, passenger, or other responsible parties. Below, we’ll explain how Florida law handles door-hitting bicycle accidents and what steps you can take to protect your rights.
UNDERSTANDING DOOR-HITTING BICYCLE ACCIDENTS
Dooring accidents occur most often on busy city streets, where cars park along curbs near bike lanes or sidewalks. A motorist or passenger may open their door without checking for approaching cyclists, giving the rider no time to stop or swerve safely. The impact can send the cyclist tumbling into traffic or onto the pavement, often leading to serious injuries like fractures, concussions, or spinal trauma.
Florida law is clear about this kind of negligence. Under Florida Statute § 316.2005, no one may open a vehicle door unless it is safe to do so and does not interfere with other traffic which includes bicyclists. Violating this rule can make the driver or passenger legally responsible for the accident.
WHO CAN BE HELD LIABLE AFTER A DOORING ACCIDENT?
Liability in a door-hitting accident depends on who caused the unsafe condition. In most cases, the person who opened the door is at fault, but other parties can share responsibility:
- The driver or passenger who opened the door without checking for cyclists.
- The vehicle owner, if they allowed someone else to operate or use the car.
- An employer, if the vehicle was being used for business purposes (such as rideshare or delivery services).
- A government or property entity, in rare cases where poor street design, unclear signage, or dangerous bike lane placement contributed to the crash.
Each case is unique, so determining liability often requires a detailed investigation and legal review.
PROVING NEGLIGENCE IN A DOOR-HITTING CASE
To successfully recover compensation after a dooring accident, you must prove that another party was negligent. In legal terms, negligence means they failed to act with reasonable care. To establish a claim, you need to show:
- Duty of care – The at-fault party had a responsibility to ensure safety before opening a vehicle door.
- Breach of duty – They failed to look for oncoming cyclists or acted recklessly.
- Causation – Their actions directly caused the accident and your injuries.
- Damages – You suffered measurable harm, such as medical expenses, lost income, or pain and suffering.
Police reports, eyewitness statements, photos of the accident scene, and medical records can all be used to support your claim.
COMPENSATION YOU MAY BE ENTITLED TO
Victims of dooring accidents in Miami can pursue several forms of compensation, depending on the severity of their injuries and financial losses. These may include:
- Medical expenses – Emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, and physical therapy.
- Lost wages – Compensation for missed work or diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering – Physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish.
- Property damage – Repair or replacement of your bicycle and gear.
- Future medical costs – Long-term treatment, rehabilitation, or therapy expenses.
FLORIDA’S COMPARATIVE NEGLIGENCE RULE
Florida uses a modified comparative negligence system, meaning your compensation can be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% responsible for the accident (for instance, if you were riding too close to parked cars), your compensation will be reduced by that amount.
However, if you are found more than 50% at fault, you may not recover any damages under Florida’s current law. That’s why having strong evidence and effective legal representation is critical in proving the other party’s fault.
WHY YOU NEED A BICYCLE ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts in bicycle accident claims, even when the driver was clearly at fault. Having an experienced Miami personal injury lawyer on your side can make a significant difference.
Your attorney can:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of the accident.
- Collect evidence such as traffic camera footage or witness statements.
- Handle all communication with insurance companies.
- Calculate the full extent of your financial and non-economic damages.
- Represent you in settlement negotiations or court proceedings.
With legal support, you can focus on healing while your lawyer fights for the compensation you deserve.
CONCLUSION
Being “doored†while cycling in Miami can cause life-changing injuries and emotional trauma. Florida law is clear: drivers and passengers must ensure it’s safe before opening their doors. When they fail to do so, they can and should be held accountable.
If you’ve been injured in a door-hitting bicycle accident in Miami, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. Consulting with a skilled personal injury attorney can help you understand your options, prove negligence, and pursue the justice you deserve.