Fatal E-Bike Crash in Manhattan Highlights Dangers of “Dooring”

In May of 2025, an e-bike rider in Manhattan lost his life after being “doored.” As dooring incidents become increasingly common in New York, more people are becoming familiar with the phrase. A dooring accident occurs when someone opens their car door into the path of a passing rider, often causing them to suffer serious injuries. If you were doored while riding your bike, you might want to speak with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer in Manhattan.

E-Bike Rider Doored Before Falling Underneath Tequila Delivery Truck

On May 1st, multiple sources reported that an e-bike rider had suffered fatal injuries in Soho, Manhattan. Authorities say that as he was passing by a parked van, an occupant opened their door into his path. The subsequent impact ejected the rider from his e-bike, causing him to fall into the path of a passing delivery truck. He was crushed by the truck’s wheels and suffered fatal head injuries.

Both the truck driver and the owner of the parked car remained at the scene. Both passed intoxication tests, and neither faced criminal charges in the immediate aftermath of the collision. NY Daily News later revealed that the e-bike rider was an influential musician known for his synthwave tracks. The van driver told reporters that the incident occurred very fast, and that he “didn’t even see the guy.”

Is Dooring a Crime in New York? 

New York does have laws against dooring cyclists. Under these laws, it is illegal to open a motor vehicle door into the path of moving traffic. Motorists are responsible for checking the flow of traffic before opening their doors, and they can only open their doors if it is safe to do so. New York also makes it illegal to leave a door open for an unreasonable amount of time if it interferes with traffic.

It is not clear whether the van driver will face any consequences for violating these laws. The authorities may need additional time to review video surveillance footage, question witnesses, and determine whether the van driver committed a traffic violation leading up to the crash.

Key Takeaways 

• “Dooring” incidents involve car doors opening and impacting passing riders
• These accidents can easily cause fatalities for cyclists and e-bike riders
• It may be possible to file an injury claim after a dooring accident in New York

Can an Auto Accident Lawyer in Manhattan Help If I Was Doored? 

If you were doored by a negligent motorist, an experienced auto accident lawyer in Manhattan may be able to help. Work with a lawyer who has direct experience with e-bike and bicycle crashes, as these legal professionals may be able to help you pursue compensation. Dooring is a serious issue in New York, and motorists must learn to open their car doors carefully. To learn more about your options, contact Cohan Law, PLLC today.

Sources: 

amny.com/new-york/bicyclist-soho-struck-truck-driver-05012025/

nydailynews.com/2025/05/03/e-biker-killed-manhattan-crash-was-top-synthwave-musician-starcadian/