You were doing everything right. Helmet strapped. Head up. Focused on the ride. Then—bam. A car door swings open without warning. Your bike crumples. You hit the pavement hard. And just like that, your ride—and maybe your future—is shattered.
This kind of crash isn’t a “freak accident.” It’s called dooring, and in Detroit, it’s happening far too often. All it takes is one careless driver or passenger to open a door into a bike lane or shoulder—and the results can be catastrophic. Cyclists are thrown into traffic, suffer broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, even permanent disability.
Let’s be clear: this is preventable. Michigan law requires drivers and passengers to check before opening a car door. But when they don’t? When they break that basic rule of the road?
That’s where we come in.
At Marko Law, We Don’t Let Carelessness Slide
We know Detroit. We know its roads. And we know that too many injured cyclists are left holding the bag—paying medical bills, losing income, fighting insurance companies that play games. That’s not right.
At Marko Law, we fight relentlessly for injured cyclists and their families. Our team has a proven track record of standing up to powerful defendants, from reckless drivers to city agencies. We hold them accountable—and we don’t back down.
If you’ve been “doored” in Detroit, you may feel powerless. But you’re not alone. We’re here to help you take your power back. Justice starts now.
Michigan Law Is on Your Side—And So Are We
Michigan Vehicle Code MCL 257.672: Dooring Is Illegal
Under Michigan Vehicle Code MCL 257.672, it is unlawful to:
"Open the door of a vehicle on the side available to moving traffic unless and until it is reasonably safe to do so and can be done without interfering with the movement of other traffic."
This includes cyclists. That’s not up for debate. If someone in a parked car opened a door into your path and caused a crash, they violated state law—and you have every right to pursue justice.
Cyclists Are Vehicles, Too—With the Same Rights
In Michigan, bicycles are considered legal vehicles. That means:
- You have the right to ride on public roads.
- You’re entitled to space, visibility, and respect from drivers.
- Bike lanes, shoulders, and shared roads are your space, protected by law.
Don’t let anyone—especially an insurance adjuster—convince you otherwise.
Comparative Negligence: Even If They Blame You, You May Still Win
Michigan follows a modified comparative negligence system, which means:
- If you are less than 51% at fault, you can recover damages.
- Your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault—but you don’t lose your right to sue.
Example: If a jury finds that you were 20% at fault because you were riding close to the parked cars, but the driver was still 80% at fault for throwing open the door—you could still recover 80% of your total damages.
Who’s Liable in a Dooring Accident?
The Car Owner and Door Opener
The most obvious liability lies with the person who opened the door—whether it was the driver or a passenger. Michigan law holds them responsible for failing to ensure it was safe before swinging that door open.
- Drivers are liable even if they didn’t open the door but failed to warn a passenger.
- Passengers can also be held accountable if their actions directly caused the crash.
And if the vehicle’s owner permitted someone to operate the car irresponsibly, they may also bear responsibility under Michigan’s owner liability laws.
Employers: When the Vehicle Was Used for Work
If the person who doored you was working—say, a delivery driver or rideshare operator—their employer may be liable under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior.
That Latin phrase means “let the master answer,” and it holds businesses accountable for the negligent acts of their employees while on the job. (Definition)
At Marko Law, we’ve successfully invoked respondeat superior to win cases against corporations and government entities. We know how to trace the chain of liability—and make it stick in court.
The City or Municipality: Dangerous Roads May Create Risk
In some cases, poorly designed infrastructure plays a role in your crash. Narrow or unmarked bike lanes, confusing signage, or poorly maintained curbside areas can create dooring hazards.
If a municipality’s negligence created or contributed to the dangerous condition that led to your crash, they may share liability.
These cases are complex—but we don’t shy away from tough fights. In fact, we’ve sued the City of Detroit and the State of Michigan and won major verdicts.
In a Dooring Crash? Take These Steps Immediately
Call 911 and Get Medical Attention—Even If You Think You're Okay
Adrenaline can mask serious injuries. Traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding often don’t show symptoms right away. Don’t wait. Don’t brush it off. Get evaluated by emergency responders and request a ride to the hospital if needed.
And make sure a police report is filed. That report becomes a critical piece of evidence later.
Document the Scene Like Your Case Depends on It—Because It Does
Use your phone to capture everything:
- The car and license plate
- The open door
- Your bicycle, any visible damage
- Your injuries
- The surrounding area—bike lane markings, traffic signs, street conditions
If anyone saw what happened, get their contact information immediately. Witnesses can make a huge difference when it's your word against the driver's.
Don’t Talk to the Driver’s Insurance Without Legal Backup
Insurance companies love to swoop in fast with a friendly tone and a lowball offer. Don’t fall for it.
- Do not give a recorded statement
- Do not sign anything
- Do not discuss fault
What you say can and will be used against you. Even a casual “I’m okay” can be twisted to downplay your injuries.
Contact Marko Law Immediately
We know how to deal with insurers, corporate defendants, and city lawyers. We’ve gone head-to-head with the State of Michigan, the City of Detroit, and some of the biggest insurance companies in the country—and we win.
From the moment you call us, we take over the stress and protect your rights. We’ll investigate, preserve evidence, and build your case like we’re headed to trial—because we’re always ready to go the distance.
What Compensation Can You Seek After a Dooring Crash?
Medical Bills—Past, Present, and Future
Dooring injuries often involve:
- Emergency room visits
- Surgeries
- Physical therapy
- Psychological counseling
- Long-term care
Whether it’s a broken collarbone or a traumatic brain injury, we pursue full reimbursement for all current and anticipated medical costs—not just what insurance wants to pay.
Lost Income & Loss of Earning Capacity
Can’t return to work? Had to take unpaid time off? Lost a promotion or career opportunity because of your injuries?
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Missed paychecks
- Reduced hours
- Long-term disability
- Future lost earning potential
We bring in financial experts to calculate your true losses and demand maximum recovery.
Pain and Suffering
This is more than just physical pain. It’s emotional trauma, fear, anxiety, and the toll of daily limitations.
Under Michigan law, you may be entitled to damages for:
- Chronic pain
- PTSD or mental health struggles
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disfigurement or disability
We make sure your story is told—and heard.
Punitive Damages for Gross Negligence
In rare but severe cases—where a driver or company showed reckless disregard for safety—we may pursue punitive damages. These are not just about compensating you. They’re about sending a message.
Punitive damages may apply if, for example:
- A delivery company ignored complaints about unsafe parking
- A rideshare driver acted with extreme carelessness
Bike Repair or Replacement
Your bike is more than a ride—it’s your transportation, your freedom, maybe even your livelihood. If it’s damaged or destroyed, we’ll fight to recover the full value, including high-end or custom components.
You Deserve More Than an Apology
If someone opened a car door into your path and changed your life in a split second, a half-hearted “I’m sorry” won’t cut it. You’re left with the injuries, the medical bills, the missed paychecks, the emotional trauma. You deserve more than a settlement. You deserve justice.
At Marko Law, we know how to fight for cyclists because we’ve fought—and won—for people just like you across Detroit and all of Michigan. We don’t play nice with insurance companies. We don’t accept lowball offers. And we don’t stop until our clients get the compensation and accountability they deserve.
Whether you're facing months of recovery or a lifetime of impact, we’ll be in your corner from day one.
Contact Marko Law for a Free Case Evaluation
📞 Phone: 1-833-MARKO-LAW or 1-313-777-7777
📍 Main Office: 220 W. Congress, 4th Floor, Detroit, MI 48226
🌐 Website: www.markolaw.com
Marko Law Will Give You A Voice
At Marko Law, we don’t just take cases — we take a stand. Whether you're facing an injury, injustice, or outright negligence, our team fights like it’s personal — because to you, it is.
- Over $500 Million recovered for our clients
- Proven track record in civil rights, personal injury & workplace justice
- Free, confidential consultations — you don’t pay unless we win
- Based in Detroit, trusted across Michigan
Ready to make your voice heard?
We’re not here to play games. We’re here to win.