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Turn lanes may better protect pedestrians and bicyclists
To the Editor:
In my seven years as a pedestrian and bicyclist in Berkeley, by far the greatest hazard has been drivers at traffic-light intersections attempting to execute left hand turns during the often very short interlude after ongoing traffic stops but before cross traffic begins. Hastily hitting the gas pedal, it is easy to overlook a small pedestrian or suddenly-appearing bicycle.
If the city of Berkeley really wants to measurably improve pedestrian safety, it will have to put its money where the problem is. Traffic circles, lighted crosswalks, and extended curbs would all be nice, but don't address the basic issue.
The much more acute need is for left-hand turn lights and left-hand turn lanes at major intersections.
Drew Keeling
Berkeley
