Case Study: $750,000 Settlement for Bicycle Rider Injured in Dooring Accident in New York

At De Caro & Kaplen, LLP, we are leaders in representing New York bicycle riders injured by careless drivers and passengers who fail to follow the law. Our firm secured a $750,000 settlement for our client, a bicyclist who suffered severe shoulder injuries, including a torn rotator cuff requiring surgery, after a "dooring" accident caused by a parked vehicle occupant who opened their door into traffic without checking for oncoming cyclists.

Case Overview: A Dangerous and Preventable Dooring Incident

Our client was riding lawfully in a designated bike lane when a parked vehicle occupant suddenly and carelessly opened their door into her path. With no time to react, she slammed into the door and was thrown violently from her bicycle. The impact caused serious injuries, including a torn rotator cuff that required surgery and extensive rehabilitation.

This accident was preventable. Section 1214 of New York’s Vehicle and Traffic Law states no one may open a vehicle door on the side facing moving traffic until it is safe to do so. This law exists to protect cyclists, pedestrians, and other road users from this type of hazard. By failing to look for oncoming traffic, the vehicle occupant violated the law and caused our client’s life-altering injuries.  Additionally, New York City Traffic Regulation 4-12(c) prohibits opening a vehicle door on the traffic side if it interferes with an approaching vehicle or bicycle, according to New York City bicycle laws.

Our Legal Strategy: Proving Liability Under New York State and New York City Laws

• Our experienced bicycle accident attorneys immediately launched a thorough investigation, gathering the evidence needed to hold the negligent vehicle occupant accountable. We gathered the necessary evidence to prove the driver violated Section 1214 of the Vehicle and Traffic Law and New York City Traffic Regulations 4-12(c) by for opening a door into moving traffic without ensuring it was safe.
• Our firm went to the scene of the accident and obtained photographs of the street, parking lane and bicycle lane confirming that our client was riding lawfully and had no opportunity to avoid the collision.
• We obtained the police accident report confirming the owner and operator of the vehicle and providing witness information.
• After commencing legal action we carefully questioned the driver about his actions and inattention establishing liability on his part. 
• We documented the full extent of our client’s injuries with detailed hospital, surgical, medical and physical therapy records establishing the need for surgery and long-term rehabilitation.
• We showed how her injuries impacted on her quality of life, including limitations on her daily activities, lost time from work, and her pain and suffering.

$750,000 Settlement: Securing Justice for Our Client

Faced with overwhelming evidence of negligence and the clear violation of laws and regulations, the driver’s insurance company agreed to settle for $750,000. This settlement compensated our client for her medical expenses, lost earnings, and the lasting consequences of her injuries.

Our Experience in Bicycle Accident Litigation

This case is one of many where we have successfully fought for bicycle riders injured due to negligent drivers and passengers. We understand the unique dangers bicyclists face on New York’s roads and the laws that protect them.

Bicycle accident cases require attorneys who understand both the legal and practical realities of cycling in New York City and across the state. At De Caro & Kaplen, LLP, we bring decades of experience, relentless advocacy, and proven results to every case.

Injured in a Bicycle Accident? We Can Help.

We are committed to fighting for cyclists injured by careless drivers and passengers. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a bicycle accident, our experienced attorneys are ready to pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.

Call De Caro & Kaplen, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation.