Posted by Larry Berezin on Mon, Apr 26, 2010 @ 07:33 AM
What responsible parent would allow their children to cross in the middle of a block with no marked crosswalk or traffic control device?
In response to a public outcry, and a strong dose of common sense, the pedestrian ramp rule was amended in December, 2008 to make it legal to park in front of a pedestrian ramp located in the mid-block of the long street of a T intersection; although you may still be issued a NYC parking ticket. Why? because it is absolutely, positively crazy for any pedestrian, let alone a person with disabilities to cross the street at that location.
Take a moment and watch a fascinating investigative report by Arnold Diaz from Fox 5 News televised prior to the 2008 amendment to the pedestrian ramp rule. And, a link to a great video from CBS weighing in on this issue. [A special thanks to Larry, not me, for pointing out this video to us].
It is very important to note the position taken on this challenge by a prominent advocate for people with disabilities.
The Traffic Rule for pedestrian ramps has been amended [34 RCNY 4-08(f)(7)]. In my opinion it is legal to park in front of a pedestrian ramp located in the middle of any block, as long as there is no marked crosswalk or traffic control device regulating traffic. Here's a post that discusses the NYC_DOT position.
Have you ever received a parking ticket after the 2008 amendment to the pedestrian ramp rule for blocking a pedestrian ramp? Did you fight? How'd you make out. Can't wait to hear your story!