21 Dec New Fines for Motorists Caught “Dooring” Cyclists

Under the B.C. Motor Vehicle Act, anyone—including drivers and passengers—opening a vehicle door on the traffic side of a vehicle is legally required to check if it’s safe to do so.

“Dooring” refers to when the occupant of a vehicle opens their door without looking, striking a cyclist in the road.  Physical contact with the door is not the only way to determine negligence—a person opening a door that causes a cyclist to swerve into traffic may be found partially or fully responsible for any collisions that occur.

As of September 21, 2020, anyone caught opening the door of a parked car when it is unsafe to do so can be fined $368, up from a previous $81.  The province implemented the increase to help reduce cycling collisions.