At McGee, Lerer & Associates, we have represented many cyclists who were doored by exiting rideshare passengers. When a bicyclist is doored by a passenger exiting an Uber or Lyft, the cyclist can end up suffering severe injuries. But who is responsible for the cyclist’s medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering?
Our team of experienced personal injury lawyers has been successful in holding rideshare companies responsible for the harm their drivers cause to passengers and bicyclists. The basis of liability is simple negligence: the failure to use reasonable care to prevent harm to others. It is not reasonable for a rideshare driver to allow a passenger to exit into a bike lane. The driver should have foreseen that a passing bicyclist could be injured and warned their passenger to remain in the vehicle until it is safe to exit.
Although the driver has a legal duty to maintain the safety of passengers and pedestrians while they are operating a rideshare vehicle, the rideshare company may try to put the blame on the passenger for not looking back before throwing open the car door. The problem of going after a passenger and trying to hold the passenger responsible for the harm caused is that the passenger may not have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, which would cover this type of claim.
If you are a bicyclist who was doored by an exiting Uber or Lyft passenger, you should seek the advice of an experienced car accident lawyer to discuss all of your rights under the law. We are a husband and wife team of personal injury attorneys with over 50 years of combined experience. We specialize in assisting clients with their serious injury and death cases.
Our attorneys are available 24/7 for a free consultation. Call (562) 270-0546 to get started on your case today.