Remco got doored: How do I avoid it?

On Tuesday, double Olympic champion Remco Evenepoel was doored. A mail deliery person mistakebly opened their door as he was approaching. After being diagnosed at the hospital he has fractures in his right shoulder blade, ribs and a broken wrist. Although his collision sounds unavoidable, there are some things you can do to try and avoid a very painful and terrible thing to happen to a cyclist.

A guide like this shouldn’t be necessary; cyclists shouldn’t have to ride defensively. Motorists should be more aware of vulnerable road users, but the fact is, many aren’t. Riding in a city can be a dangerous and risky experience. David Shellnutt, a.k.a. The Biking Lawyer, emphasizes the unfortunate truth that most drivers simply aren’t looking for cyclists. Therefore, it’s crucial to ride defensively. This is not victim-shaming any rider who is hit by a driver; it’s the proactive approach we need to take for our own safety.

Chris Froome is doored on training ride and suffers a “shredded elbow”

“Assume they don’t see you or don’t care,” Shellnutt advises on his website. “I always hate saying that; it sounds all doom and gloom, but if that kind of thinking helps you avoid a crash, then it’s actually a rather positive mantra.”

Concerning what to look out for, the cycling advocate offers the following tips.

Right or left hooks

Ride assuming that drivers aren’t indicating or slowing down; they might turn right or left in front of you.

Avoid the dooring zone

This refers to the space along the side of a parked car where you can be seriously hurt if a driver opens their door, approximately 1.2 m. Take extra space when going around parked cars, even if you ring your bell—they might not hear it due to closed windows or loud music.

Stop signs and red lights

Shellnutt has seen a surprising number of cars rolling through red lights or stop signs. “Make eye contact with the driver and ensure they will stop,” he says. “When in doubt, assume they will roll through.” Always assume the worst of drivers; at least you won’t be disappointed.

Changing lanes

“Do so early, signal, and only change lanes when you’ve triple-checked,” says Shellnutt. It shouldn’t be necessary, but unfortunately, you can’t assume anything when it comes to drivers.

If you get doored

If a motorist doors you, Shellnutt advises getting to safety and seeking medical attention. “If you are injured or believe you could be injured (be mindful you’re…