Noted Bicycle Injury Lawyer Jeff Nadrich Comments on Bicycle Safety Proposal in San Francisco
Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) July 28, 2013 -- City leaders in San Francisco are debating a proposal that would potentially make crowded Polk Street safer for bicyclists, this according to a report from the San Francisco Chronicle. The plan was drafted by the Municipal Transportation Agency, and seeks to reconstruct the street in a way that would allow space for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians alike. The plan is reportedly facing some controversy, but noted bicycle accident lawyer Jeff Nadrich believes that bicyclists have a legal right to more accommodating city streets.
“As an avid cyclist myself, I confess that I have a personal vested interest in this issue,” says Nadrich, “but cyclists have a legitimate legal claim to safer streets. In San Francisco, the controversy stems primarily from local businesses, which fear that new bike lanes would eliminate parking spaces along the street. We're seeing a very similar controversy being played out in Glendale and Eagle Rock right now, but cyclists shouldn't have to navigate dangerous roads and run the risk of suffering serious bicycle accidents just because a few business owners are concerned about parking convenience.”
Nadrich further notes that this is more than a matter of safety. There are legal variables to consider. “It's important to note that business owners have no legal claim over the street parking in front of their establishments, and cities like San Francisco would be wise to consider the potential legal liability of failing to accommodate cyclists. Bike-vehicle accidents occur every day, and cities are often named in lawsuits when poor bike accessibility is an issue.”
According to the San Francisco Chronicle report, the new MTA plan would still preserve 90 percent of the parking along the street, and is being viewed as a compromise which may not satisfy cyclists or business owners at the end of the day. According Supervisor David Chiu, "This proposal will dramatically improve public safety for residents, merchants, pedestrians and bicyclists," but the plan still requires the approval of the MTA board. An open house is planned for July 25th, at which time city leaders will further discuss the initiative.
About Nadrich & Cohen: Jeffrey Nadrich is a bicycle attorney with Nadrich & Cohen, a California based law firm with offices in 18 locations across the state. Nadrich & Cohen handles all types of wrongful death and serious injury accident cases, and victims are encouraged to call 1-800-718-4658 for a free consultation with a Nadrich & Cohen attorney.
Source:
San Francisco Chronicle: Polk Street proposals for better bicycle safety; July 18, 2013
Jeff Nadrich, Nadrich & Cohen LLP, 1-800-718-4658, [email protected]
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