The act of dooring is when a driver or passenger opens a car door unsafely into the path of oncoming traffic, resulting in a collision or swerving. Dooring can lead to serious injuries or even death, particularly for cyclists.
To help reduce dooring collisions and keep all road users safe, the B.C. government has significantly increased the fine for dooring.
Effective September 21, 2020 anyone opening the door of a parked car when it is not safe will face a fine of $368.
There are simple behaviour changes that can reduce the risk of dooring.
Drivers and passengers should open their door with the far hand by reaching across their body. This forces them to swivel and look in the rear-view mirror, out to the side, and then over their shoulder to see any oncoming traffic.
Cyclists and other active transportation users should stay at least one metre away from parked cars to avoid collisions. It is useful to remember the saying, "door and a bit more.”
Contact us if you have questions about dooring.