So now he's expected to break the law? Nah, papi.
http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/downloads/pdf/bicyclerules_fy08_english.pdf
§ 19-176 - Bicycles operation on sidewalks prohibited
Bicycles ridden on sidewalks may be confiscated and riders may be subject to legal sanctions. See also N.Y.C. Traffic Rules and Regulations §4-07 (c).
§ 1231 - Traffic Laws Applicable to Persons Riding Bicycles
Bicyclists are granted all rights and subject to all duties applicable to operator of vehicle except where not applicable.
Hmmm...let's consider the situation and evaluate our options.
Situation:
I'm on a bike and I have a driver who supposedly is looking to start trouble with me. I am on a little bike, with very little protection; meanwhile this guy is in control of a vehicle that could easily be in the neighborhood of a ton, and he's being--supposedly--antagonistic with it, toward me.
Option A:
Let me disregard both my well being and common sense, and stay in the immediate vicinity of the supposed threat--the street-- because the law forbids me to ride onto the sidewalk, however temporary the excursion is...
or
Option B:
Let me value my life, because that's common sense and logical, and get my @-$-$ out of that dangerous situation, by hopping onto that sidewalk and peddling away for 10-20 mins-- even if it means breaking the law.
Hmmm...what to do...corporal safety...or the NYPDs silly law...
real tough choice...
LIke I said, bike brah could've easily made the situation a non-happen by bouncing onto that sidewalk, and peddling away for 5-10 mins.
In the event the NYPD stops him and tries to give him a hard about riding on the sidewalk, well he has footage from his Go-Pro to justify his action, right?
...