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Bill to protect Virginia cyclists from ‘dooring’ goes to Senate

Posted at 5:33 PM, Jan 19, 2013
and last updated 2013-01-19 17:34:45-05

Richmond, Va. – Lawmakers in the General Assembly are working on legislation that would fine drivers who open their car doors in front of, and into bikers, according to WTVR.

The problem is known as ‘dooring,’ and at least 40 states already have a law that penalizes drivers who open a car door when traffic is passing.

The law would fine drivers $100 dollars for opening their car door into the path of a bicyclist, or oncoming traffic.

Some question if such a law could even be enforced.

Senator John Watkins, (R)-10th District, is against the legislation.

“Keep in mind, this legislation affects you in densely populated areas and rural areas,” he said. “You can’t leave your door open for what is determined to be an inordinate amount of time, otherwise you get fined.”

Read more at WTVR.com.