“Dooring” Incident in Brooklyn Kills Cyclist
“Dooring” is a phenomenon that cyclists in Brooklyn know only too well – and it leads to some of the most shocking and dangerous bicycle accidents in New York. A recent dooring incident in Brooklyn has claimed the life of a cyclist, and reporters say that the accident occurred in an area that has proven especially dangerous. If you have been injured by a “dooring” incident in New York, consider contacting a lawyer to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Cyclist Thrown into Brooklyn Traffic After Being Doored
On February 27th of 2024, it was reported that a 64-year-old cyclist had suffered fatal injuries while riding a rental bike in Brooklyn. According to police reports, the accident began when a driver of a parked sedan opened their door into the cyclist’s path. There was no time for the victim to avoid the impact, and they were subsequently thrown onto the pavement. Within moments, the prone cyclist was struck and fatally wounded by a passing vehicle.
Although first responders did their best to save the man, he subsequently passed away at a nearby hospital. While both of the drivers involved in the incident remained at the scene and cooperated with police, neither faced arrest. An investigation is ongoing, however. It is worth noting that in New York, it is illegal to suddenly open your car door into the path of moving traffic unless it is reasonably safe to do so.
Dooring Never Seems to Stop in Brooklyn
Dooring seems to be a persistent issue in Brooklyn, causing numerous cyclists to suffer fatal or disabling injuries each year. Despite these obvious hazards, drivers rarely experience any consequences for dooring cyclists. Even traffic tickets are unheard of.
Department of Transport Accused of “Doing Nothing” to Improve Cycling Safety
In the aftermath of this fatal incident, concerned community members and cyclists have criticized the Department of Transport (DOT) for what they perceive to be complete inaction on a deadly issue threatening New Yorkers. These critics point out that this accident occurred on Broadway in Brooklyn – the same area that the DOT identified as a “Vision Zero Priority Corridor” years ago. Despite giving it a fancy name, however, the DOT doesn’t seem to have accomplished much to reduce cycling accidents in this area.
Key Takeaways
- “Dooring” occurs when a car door opens into the path of a cyclist
- Vision Zero is a program that aims to reduce traffic fatalities down to zero
- After dooring accidents, cyclists can sue negligent drivers for compensation
Find a Qualified, Experienced Bicycle Accident in Brooklyn
If you’ve been searching for a qualified, experienced New York bicycle accident lawyer, look no further than Cohan Law, PLLC. Over the years, we have helped numerous injured cyclists in New York – including those who have been “doored.” As recent events clearly illustrate, these incidents can easily prove fatal. With our help, you can pursue the compensation you deserve for these preventable accidents. If you have lost a loved one to a fatal dooring incident, we can also help you pursue compensation on behalf of your loved one. Reach out today to get started with an effective action plan.
Source:
nyc.streetsblog.org/2024/02/27/cyclist-killed-after-being-doored-into-traffic-on-unsafe-brooklyn-street
