San Francisco, CA (May 30, 2024) – On May 30, 2024, in the Bayview neighborhood of San Francisco, cyclist Steven Bassett was killed in an accident that occurred at the intersection of Newhall Street and Fairfax Avenue.
Accident Details: The incident involved a collision between a cyclist and a parked vehicle owned by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC). The cyclist, identified as 70-year-old Steven Bassett of San Francisco, succumbed to life-threatening injuries despite being transported to a local hospital.
Investigation: Initial reports suggest that Steven Bassett was the victim of a “dooring” incident—a situation where a cyclist is hit by a car door being opened into their path.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several factors warrant further consideration. The first area of inquiry is whether the driver of the SFPUC vehicle exercised due care when opening the door. California law explicitly requires that no person shall open the door of a vehicle unless it is reasonably safe to do so, and without interfering with moving traffic, including cyclists. If it is found that the door was opened into Bassett’s path without adequate caution, this could establish negligence on the part of the vehicle operator. Given that the vehicle involved belonged to a city agency, SFPUC, there are additional considerations regarding municipal liability. Depending on the outcome of the investigation, Steven Bassett’s family may be able to file a wrongful death claim.
My deepest condolences go to the family and friends of Steven Bassett during this heartbreaking time.
Source: The San Francisco Standard