Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
Cartoon

A Round and a Roundy: How the NYPD Investigates Crashes (Poorly)

Cartoon: Bill Roundy

It's our December donation drive. Your gift helps us do these kinds of important stories. So please click here.
It's our December donation drive. Your gift helps us do these kinds of important stories. So please click here.

Our editorial cartoonist was upset after reading our post about shoddy policing that absolved a driver off who had just rammed her car into a cyclist on the Second Avenue "protected" bike lane.

Editorial cartoon of Bill Roundy by editorial cartoonist Bill Roundy.
Bill Roundy by Bill Roundy.
Editorial cartoon of Bill Roundy by editorial cartoonist Bill Roundy.

And it made him wonder: Does the NYPD treat other crimes as if they are simply unavoidable "accidents"? Of course not. If someone uses a gun or a knife to injure someone, Dermot Shea's officers seek to hold someone accountable for that violence. As they should.

But road violence is treated differently. Sure, it's partly because everyone (including cops) drive — and unlike carrying a gun, driving itself isn't illegal. But when any tool — a gun, a screwdriver or a car — is used violently or carelessly, there needs to be some recourse.

Except the NYPD doesn't agree, which is why we need national treasures like Bill Roundy on the case.

All of Bill Roundy's cartoons are archived here.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Cyclist: Cop Pulled a Taser During Summons Chase

In a dramatic escalation of the NYPD's criminal crackdown on bike riders, a police officer pulled a stun gun while chasing a cyclist for allegedly running a red light on a regular bike.

May 30, 2025

Albany Pols Seize the Helm(et)

Helmet laws remain controversial — they're the "common-sense" approach pushed by lawmakers who ignore that studies show they don't improve safety.

May 30, 2025

Tisch Reveals Real Reason for Her E-Bike Crackdown: E-Bike Licensing

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch doubles down on her cycling criminalization campaign, saying e-bike licensing is the only other option.

May 30, 2025

Friday’s Headlines: A ‘Critical’ Moment Edition

Cyclists will protest against the NYPD's bike crackdown with a Critical Mass ride to City Hall on Friday. Plus more news.

May 30, 2025

Eyes on the Street: Astoria’s Big Beautiful 31st Avenue Bike Boulevard

Streetsblog paid a visit to New York City's widest on-street protected bike lane ever, which is up and running in Astoria.

May 30, 2025
See all posts