Bicycles are, for the most part, less dangerous than cars or trucks. But reckless driving is a crime whether it's committed with a gas pedal or foot pedals. That was the conclusion of a state appeals court in Los Angeles that refused to dismiss a felony reckless-driving charge against a drunken cyclist accused of gravely injuring a pedestrian.
It was the first appellate decision on the issue, and will become binding statewide unless overturned on appeal. Thursday's ruling came a year after a guilty plea in a fatal collision at a San Francisco intersection between a cyclist and a pedestrian that raised the same question: whether traffic rules and criminal penalties that were designed for motor vehicles should apply to human-powered vehicles that, while far smaller and lighter, can cause considerable harm and havoc. Bikes versus cars can be a divisive issue, whether in the context of the Critical Mass cyclists who periodically take over San Francisco streets or the mutual accusations that arise when a turning motorist clips an unseen cyclist.
But the court's answer - that the same rules apply to all - didn't trouble the executive director of the California Bicycle Coalition , Dave Snyder.
In the San Francisco case, bicyclist Chris Bucchere , a year-old software engineer, reportedly ran through three red lights on March 29, , before entering the intersection at Castro and Market streets.
By varying accounts, he either rode past a yellow light or a red light before striking and killing year-old Sutchi Hui of San Bruno, who was walking with his wife. Search for:. Attorney Frederick Dudek Fred has thousands of miles of cycling under his belt, in California and throughout the United States. He frequently commutes to his San Diego law office on his bicycle.
Fred is an active member of the Blind Stokers Club , an organization that provides opportunities Read More. Fred has thousands of miles of cycling under his belt. Let Us Review Your Case. Please leave this field empty. I have read and understand the privacy policy. Most sports and activities have their own words and expressions that are unique to the events.
All cyclists, especially those who regularly plan San Diego cycling excursions, may improve their biking experiences by understanding basic cycling terminology. Using the appropriate cycling terms Fred Dudek offers this useful information about bikes. Cyclists face particular risks while biking on roadways and sidewalks.
One important risk factor involves dangerous bike path conditions. Prosecutors say he drove a stolen car as he pulled off a car break-in spree in Golden Gate Park, driving fast and erratically — and hitting Miller after veering across the oncoming traffic lane. He allegedly fled and abandoned the car in the park. The new attorney did not return a request for comment. Told that another alleged hit-and-run driver killed another woman on the same day and spent 16 days in jail, Chew said he was surprised.
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