Cyclist accidents, especially in busy cities like New York, are becoming a bigger issue and lead to increasing concerns about safety. One of the most preventable but common types of accidents is known as "dooring." A dooring accident happens when a passenger or driver in a parked car opens their door into the path of a cyclist, causing serious injury or even death. However, a simple action known as the "New York Twist" has been promoted as an effective way to significantly reduce dooring incidents and enhance road safety.

What Is the "New York Twist"?

The "New York Twist" is a driving habit inspired by a Dutch road safety technique called the "Dutch Reach." It involves using your far hand—the hand furthest from the door—to open your car door. In practice, if you are sitting in the driver's seat, you would use your right hand to open the door. This simple motion forces your body to rotate and naturally positions your head to look over your shoulder, checking for any approaching cyclists before you open the door.

Why Is the "New York Twist" Effective?

Dooring accidents are not just a minor inconvenience; they are potentially deadly. According to a 2022 report by the NYC Department of Transportation, dooring incidents were responsible for hundreds of injuries in the city. In a city as densely packed as New York, cyclists and parked vehicles often share dangerously close quarters, increasing the likelihood of these types of accidents.

By adopting the "New York Twist," drivers and passengers are more likely to:

• Notice oncoming cyclists: The physical action of twisting to open the door provides a natural opportunity to check your surroundings.
• Reduce dooring accidents: By checking for cyclists before opening the door, drivers can avoid obstructing their path.
• Enhance overall safety: Increased awareness benefits not just cyclists but pedestrians and other vehicles as well, creating a safer road environment for all.

The Scope of the Problem: Statistics on Dooring Accidents

Dooring accidents are a serious issue in New York City and beyond. According to data from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles:

• In 2021, there were over 300 recorded incidents of dooring accidents in New York City alone.
• According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), cycling-related fatalities nationwide saw a significant rise of 44% between 2010 and 2020. This increase underscores the growing risks faced by cyclists on U.S. roads during that period.
• A 2019 study from the New York City Department of Transportation found that dooring contributed to about 7% of cycling injuries in the city annually.

These statistics highlight the importance of widespread adoption of safety measures like the "New York Twist." A proactive approach could save countless lives and prevent serious injuries.

Legal Implications of Dooring Accidents in New York

In New York, dooring is illegal under Section 1214 of the Vehicle and Traffic Law, which states that "no person shall open the door of a motor vehicle unless it is reasonably safe to do so." This law places a legal responsibility on drivers and passengers to ensure that they are not endangering cyclists when exiting a vehicle. When a dooring accident occurs, the person who opened the door is often held liable, especially if the injured party is a cyclist.

Victims of dooring accidents may be entitled to compensation, which could include:

• Medical expenses: Hospital visits, surgeries, and ongoing treatments.
• Lost wages: If you are unable to work due to your injuries.
• Pain and suffering: Reimbursement for the emotional and physical caused by the accident.
• Property damage: Repairs or replacement of the bicycle or other personal property.

How to Implement the "New York Twist" in Daily Life

Adopting the "New York Twist" is easy and can be practiced every time you exit your vehicle. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Use your far hand to reach for the door handle. If you're the driver, this means using your right hand; if you're the passenger, use your left hand.
2. Twist your torso as you reach for the door handle, naturally encouraging you to look over your shoulder.
3. Check for cyclists and other vehicles or pedestrians in your vicinity.
4. Open the door slowly, giving yourself more time to respond if someone is approaching.
5. Exit cautiously, ensuring that the path is clear.

This small change in behavior requires minimal effort but can have a profound impact on road safety.

Promoting the "New York Twist" Across New York City

The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) has been actively promoting the "New York Twist" through various public safety campaigns. A recent PSA video released in 2023 features animated cyclists, drivers, and passengers demonstrating the proper technique to raise awareness among the public. These initiatives aim to reduce the number of dooring incidents, especially in high-traffic areas like Manhattan and Brooklyn, where cyclists are more likely to be sharing tight spaces with parked vehicles.

City officials encourage all road users to take responsibility for preventing accidents. Cyclists can do their part by remaining vigilant and riding at a safe distance from parked cars. However, the greater burden lies on drivers and passengers to adopt the "New York Twist" and make it a daily habit.

Conclusion

The "New York Twist" is a powerful yet simple technique that can help prevent dooring accidents and save lives. By taking an extra moment to check for cyclists before opening your car door, you are contributing to a safer, more responsible driving culture. With public awareness campaigns and legal backing, the widespread adoption of this practice could significantly reduce injuries and fatalities on New York City streets.

Need Legal Help? Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is One Phone Call Away

Navigating New York bicycle accident claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced personal injury lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.

Contact us now for a free legal review.