Drivers risk £1,000 fine for 'opening car door' due to road law

Motorists could be fined £1,000 for opening their car door in an often forgotten driving rule that can have devastating consequences. Road users may stop concentrating once their journey comes to an end and open their door without looking in their mirrors.

Checking before opening is crucial with road users running the risk of colliding their door into the path of pedestrians and cyclists. This can cause "serious injuries" with motorists set to be "legally held responsible" in the event of an accident. Lara O'Donnell, Head of Personal Injury at CEL Solicitors, stressed road users could be liable with bills likely to reach "thousands of pounds" in a major blow.

Lara said: "Cyclists have almost no protection against a car door suddenly swinging open. Even at low speeds, the impact can cause serious injuries - from broken bones to life-changing head trauma. And legally, the driver or passenger who opened the door can be held responsible."

"Dooring isn't just bad manners - it's illegal. If a cyclist is injured, you could be liable for thousands in damages, plus your insurance premium will likely skyrocket. It's a costly mistake that's so easy to avoid."

According to data from the Department for Transport, hundreds of cyclists are injured by vehicle doors every year. However, it is quite possible that the actual number of accidents is likely to be far higher with many incidents going under-reported.

Rule 239 of the Highway Code makes clear that motorists "MUST ensure you do not hit anyone when you open your door. Check for cyclists or other traffic."

The AA has urged road users to adopt a method known as the 'Dutch Reach' to avoid collisions with cyclists. The tip involves opening the car door with the hand furthest from the handle every time they leave their vehicle.

By doing this, road users turn their whole body to face the road and should be able to check their mirrors and blind spots more easily.

The AA added: "You could endanger or injure a cyclist if they're forced to swerve dangerously, are involved in a collision or are killed as a result. It applies whether you're a driver or a passenger. The offence can be punished by a fine of up to £1,000 but no penalty points can be added to the offender's licence."

Lara explained: "Just a couple of seconds to check could save someone from serious injury - and save you from a lot of legal trouble."