Legal Panel To Be Held Discussing Death of Chicago Bicyclist

Online communication is a great way to stay informed about what is going on.  However, the internet is often a place where bad information is planted and misunderstandings take root. In the wake of the death of Chicago bicyclist, Bobby Cann, there have been some thoughtful online discussions, but also rank speculation and some plain bad ideas.  A petition is circulating asking that the driver that killed Bobby not be allowed to reach a plea bargain deal in his criminal case.  But would that really be a good idea?  Could a protected bicycle lane on Clybourn Avenue where he died have prevented the collision?  Is it appropriate to contact Bobby's family about erection of a memorial?  Some Chicago cyclists may be wondering, what if something happens to me while I am riding?  What rights do me and my family have?  These questions and more have been asked by many Chicago cyclists since Bobby Cann's death.  It seems like a good time to get together, and talk; you know, like people did back in the day.

On Tuesday evening from 6:30 to 8:30(ish), myself and criminal defense attorney, Ian Kasper, will present a discussion about Cycling, the Law and the Bobby Cann case.  I will talk about ways to reduce your chances getting hit by a car while cycling and what to do if you are.  Ian will talk about the prosecution of drivers who injure bicyclists.  But we will be ready to field questions about about the legal aspects of the case that has been on everyone's mind since May 29th.  We invite anyone and everyone to come with their questions about how the crash happened, how future such incidents may be avoided and what may lie in store for the man who killed Bobby.  We will talk about what we know, and we will tell you honestly what is not yet clear.  First and foremost we intend to provide a forum for thoughtful discussion and reflection.

There is no fee to attend.  Please visit the event listing on The Chainlink for additional details and to RSVP.

Forked Up: Two Bicycle Recalls Announced Due to Faulty Forks

Two recalls were announced this week by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission due to faulty forks.  REI is recalling its Novara Fusion Bicycles because, "The alloy steerer tube could separate from the fork causing the rider to lose control."  These bicycles were sold at REI stores nationwide from November 2009 to November 2010.  If you own one of these bikes you should contact REI about receiving a replacement fork.  Click here to read the recall release.

Felt Bicycles is also recalling certain of this models due to concerns about faulty forks.  The recall affects all 2011 Felt F3, F4, F5 and F75 bikes with carbon fiber frames and forks.  The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that, "The bicycles' fork can break, causing the rider to lose control, fall and suffer injuries."  It is not clear in what way the forks can break.  Nevertheless, owners of these bikes are encouraged to contact Felt for a free inspection and repair.

Recall of Bicycles Sold By REI

Last month, outdoor equipment seller REI announced a voluntary recall of a bicycle it sold. The bike was the 2005 Novara Trionfo Bicycle which came with a carbon fiber fork that could separate from the steerer tube. To read the recall news release from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission click here.