The Law Offices of James M. Freeman, P.C.

The Chicago Tribune has reported that Mayor Daley introduced an ordinance yesterday that would fine motorists who turn left or right in front of someone on a bicycle, violate the three-foot passing law or open a vehicle door into the path of a cyclist.

Mayor Daley claims to be an avid cyclist himself. According to the Trib he said he personally has been involved in unhappy encounters with motorists, providing them with "a few choice words" and "salutes" that he said were delivered "in the Chicago way."

This is a big step toward making the bicycle a more viable and safe form of transportation to Chicago residents. It provides statutory violations for negligent acts against cyclists, which should make the public and police more aware of cyclists' rights to the road in Chicago.