Construction on Esplanade Starts in Chico
Chico began construction on the iconic “Esplanade” on Tuesday, August 14, 2018, to improve traffic safety for drivers and pedestrians, cyclists, and first responders. The roadway is one of Chico’s most traveled thoroughfares and has been the site of nearly 200 traumatic car accidents over the past decade and authorities say that these improvements will help reduce the number of crashes that happen along the road. According to officials, the new construction project will continue for a few months but is expected to be completed by the fall of 2018.
The Project
The Public Works Department of Chico reported that the project is funded by a $360,000 grant. Work on Memorial Way and Cohasset Road is underway and scheduled to begin at the intersection of Esplanade and East 8th Street.
The project will include building ramps on curbs that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, as well as the installation of flashing traffic beacons that let drivers know when pedestrians are crossing the road. In addition to these projects, a bike path will be added to Cohasset Road so cyclists can travel independently of vehicle traffic.
Emergency Vehicle System
Reportedly, part of the grant will pay for a preemptive system for emergency response vehicles. Emergency vehicles will be equipped with units that can communicate with traffic lights to give them a clear path through the roadway. This means that emergency vehicles in Chico can reach their destinations more quickly, a change that could save lives.
One city representative stated that “something like this” had been planned for the city for more than a year. The spokesperson added that the project is driven by data and is attempting to respond to a high rate of vehicle and pedestrian-related collisions on Esplanade, adding that the project is “much needed here.”
Car Accidents and Personal Injury Damages
The vast majority of vehicle accidents are caused by a negligent driver. Because accidents can cause serious emotional, physical, and financial damages to injured parties, negligent drivers can be held responsible for paying for losses related to a crash. However, the damages that reckless drivers can be responsible for differ from case to case. Some of the more common damages that injured parties can seek include:
- Medical bills
- Physical therapy expenses
- Lost income
- Lost earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of use
Filing a Personal Injury Claim
Recovering from painful injuries can be difficult, and dealing with a personal injury claim on top of it all can be even harder. Those injured during a crash should know that, according to California law, they have to file a claim within two years of the date of the accident. This time limit is even shorter in cases involving government entities, such as crashes caused by roadway defects. Contact a local car accident lawyer to learn more about the details of filing a personal injury claim.
More by Ed Smith, Chico Car Accident Lawyer
Chico Car Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Chico car accident lawyer. Crashes often cause severe injuries. If you have been in a crash and received trauma, call me at (530) 592-9400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice. I am available online as well.
I have assisted the residents of Chico with claiming full wrongful death and personal injury recompenses since 1982.
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