The city of San Francisco is considering a nearly $2 million settlement with the family of a cyclist who died after being struck by an opening car door. Steven Bassett, 70, died in the spring of 2024 following the incident in the Bayview neighborhood.
An employee of the Public Utilities Commission reportedly opened the driver's side door of a parked vehicle at an intersection, hitting Bassett as he cycled past. According to a preliminary report from the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, Bassett was hospitalized after the collision and died on June 11, a few days after the accident. The term for such incidents is commonly known as "dooring."
Bassett's sister, Lisa Baker, subsequently filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the city, alleging negligence on the part of the city employee and inadequate training for city workers regarding awareness of cyclists. Baker's attorney stated in the filing that Bassett's death was a "direct and legal result of the negligence, carelessness, and wrongful conduct" of the city employee.
Maya Kwart, communications director for the city attorney's office, stated that the proposed settlement of $1.97 million is considered an appropriate resolution given the costs associated with continued litigation. The San Francisco Board of Supervisors is expected to vote on the settlement.
Bassett was an active member of the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition and was described as an avid cyclist and outdoorsman. The coalition held a vigil in his memory at the site of the collision. The organization noted that initial reports mischaracterized the incident, suggesting Bassett crashed into the vehicle rather than being struck by the car door. The coalition also pointed out that the intersection where the crash occurred lacked sufficient safety infrastructure for cyclists.
Christopher White, executive director of the SF Bicycle Coalition, stated at the time, "Steve was a beloved brother, friend, and coworker. Our hearts and thoughts are with everyone who knew and loved him." He added that Bassett "loved the Giants, loved to ride his bicycle, and was a big supporter of making our city better for people who bike for everyday transportation."
The coalition has advocated that dooring incidents are preventable and that responsibility lies with the vehicle's driver, referencing the California Vehicle Code.
Following his death, Bassett's family honored his life at the San Francisco Columbarium. His sister described him as "kind, caring, loving, loyal, consummate professional, the guy who would cheer for you or mourn with you, and always gave perfect advice." She further noted his ability to remain calm during challenging situations, stating, "He was the calm in the eye of the storm when in the middle of a trial and kept everyone on an even keel."