A motorcyclist died on Wednesday night after crashing into a car door, which a passenger opened without warning.

The accident happened at about 9.30pm along Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3 towards Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1, police said. The car had stopped at a traffic light and it is unclear why the front-seat passenger allegedly opened the door twice, reported Chinese evening daily Lianhe Wanbao.

The motorcyclist, Mr Ridzuan Abdul Latiff, who was riding by, crashed into the door. He landed about 10m away as a result of the impact, said Wanbao.

The front passenger door of the car was also badly dented.

Following the accident, some passers-by helped to direct traffic and one also tried to resuscitate the motorcyclist, Wanbao said.

The passenger of the black Toyota - a 34-year-old man - was arrested for causing death by a negligent act, the police said. The motorcyclist was unconscious when he was taken to Tan Tock Seng Hospital. He was later pronounced dead. Police investigations are ongoing.