Elderly Cyclist Severely Injured in Brooklyn School Bus Crash

Brooklyn is home to numerous cyclists, and the borough has implemented various bike safety plans within the past few years. These include the transformation of Berry Street into “Bike Boulevard” and the establishment of seven “Bicycle Priority Districts.” Despite these improvements, however, bicycle accidents continue to occur at a worrying pace throughout Brooklyn. A recent incident almost claimed the life of a senior citizen, highlighting the need for further safety initiatives.

Senior Cyclist “Critically Injured” by School Bus

 In May of 2024, it was reported that a cyclist in Brooklyn had been “critically injured” by a school bus. The accident began when a vehicle occupant suddenly opened their car door into the cyclist’s path. With no time to react, the cyclist was ejected from his bike after slamming into the open door. He then fell across the path of a passing school bus and suffered critical injuries.

The driver of the school bus did not face any criminal charges, suggesting there was no time to avoid the impact. Authorities did not reveal whether the vehicle occupant faced any consequences for opening their car door in a dangerous manner. Unfortunately, these “dooring” accidents have become far too common throughout New York. The risk of death is surprisingly high. Brain injuries often occur after cyclists impact the cement. A dooring accident can be especially deadly if it ejects the cyclists into the path of a passing vehicle.

Can You Sue After Being “Doored” by Someone in New York?

 Vehicle drivers and occupants must be careful when opening their doors into the path of cyclists. This is especially important if they park alongside bike lanes. A quick glance at a mirror before opening a car door can save lives. Shoulder checking is also a smart move.

If you were injured in a “dooring” accident, you may have the ability to sue the driver directly. You can also file a no-fault claim through your own car insurance policy (assuming you own your own automobile in addition to your bike). These types of accidents often involve rideshare vehicles or taxis, as they make frequent pickups and dropoffs. Suing a company like Uber or Lyft for a dooring accident is certainly possible.

 Key Takeaways 

• School bus drivers often have questionable driving records
• “Dooring” accidents can easily kill cyclists
• You can file a wrongful death lawsuit if your senior died in a bike accident

Contact an Experienced Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Brooklyn 

If you were injured in a Brooklyn bicycle accident, book a consultation with Cohan Law, PLLC. We know how dangerous cycling can be in New York, and we can help you pursue compensation for your injuries. If you have lost a loved one to a fatal bike accident, we can also help you file a wrongful death lawsuit. To discuss your legal options in more detail, reach out to our New York personal injury lawyers today.

Sources: 

nydailynews.com/2024/05/08/elderly-cyclist-critically-injured-in-crash-with-school-bus-in-brooklyn/

nyc.gov/html/dot/downloads/pdf/bike-safety-plan.pdf