I can’t remember the first time I saw a Ghost Bike installation, but as an avid cyclist, I can assure you they have a visceral impact. The newest memorial to fatal encounters between cyclists and cars has been erected here at a sight that used to be quite nightmarish.
When I worked in Hayes Valley, I was once ticketed by police for not following the insane hairpin turn that used to send cyclists right next to motorists who were crossing Market Street in order to enter the freeway. As I calmly explained to the officer, I’d rather pay the fine than risk my life being shunted next to cars which all too often would make illegal, last second and bike-crushing right turns on to Market Street.
Happily, the bike lane has been officially changed to follow the path which makes sense and gives us cyclists a chance to be seen and safe.
I continue to be grateful to the SF Bike Coalition for their tireless efforts advocating for physically protected bike lanes.
