Yeah, I know. I got into an argument with a couple to tools in a shiny new SUV on Fifth Ave in BKLYN yesterday. One tool told me it wasn't illegal to park in the bike lane.

As for UPS and other deliveries, the just need to double park outside the bike lane. I was shocked to learn that double parking is permitted for commercial vehicles provided certain conditions are met (e.g., no parking spaces avaliable within 100', etc.). The provision of the code specifically says, " A person may stand a commercial vehicle along the roadway side of a bicycle lane provided all other conditions of this paragraph are met." It's section 4-08(f) of the NYC Traffic Regs, if you're interested.

How's this for an idea? Allow a private cause of action for vehicles parked in bike lanes. Require a photo (easy with cell phone cameras) and a form affidavit saying the complainant witnessed the parking, the photo is accurate and the complainant couldn't safely use the lane as a result of the parking. I'd file a few of those, I tell you.

- Jeff