August 23, 2024
Philadelphia Cyclists Advocate for Safer Roads
On Monday, the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia held a town hall meeting in Society Hill to discuss lobbying political leaders for increased road safety. Ten cyclists were killed on Philadelphia roadways in 2023. The demand for safer roads has intensified since the pediatrician and chief resident of the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia was struck by a car and killed last month in the bike lane near Rittenhouse Square.
The coalition delivered a 6,000-signature petition to Philadelphia City Hall last week requesting that protected bike lanes be added to Spruce Street, Pine Street, and Allegheny Avenue. Members also requested increased enforcement of stopped or parked vehicles in bike lanes and the construction of parking-protected bike lanes, which shield cyclists from moving traffic with a row of parked vehicles.
“This is city-wide [issue] and we have to make sure our mayor and council people all see this as an issue that’s on par with gun violence,” said a coalition member. He voiced concerns that requests have been ignored over preconceived notions that bike lanes only benefit cyclists.
“We want our elected officials to know [bikes lanes] are for everybody,” he said, extending an invitation for Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker to join members in biking city roads for a firsthand look at the dangers facing areas cyclists.
Representatives from Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson’s office at the town hall meeting assured attendees that officials are taking their requests seriously.
In Pennsylvania, cyclists are required to ride in the same direction as traffic, in the right-hand lane, or as close as possible to the curb or edge, except when passing a vehicle or when making a left-hand turn. These requirements do not apply on roads with unsafe surfaces or two-lane roads. Pennsylvania requires motorists to pass cyclists on the left and maintain a distance of no less than four feet from the cyclist.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a motorist when cycling, call Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. at 267-861-7100 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia and King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Montgomery County, Delaware County, Bucks County, Chester County, and Norristown.