I am glad she is ok !

Kevin, you are absolutely correct. The good news is that Linda nor the traveling public did not suffer bodily injury. From what I can see in the photo it looks like this is a catch basin for storm water runoff and that what is being called a manhole cover is actually a storm water grate. It also appears that the grate was resting on what appears to be bricks which would lead me to believe that perhaps the catch basin was "bricked up" so as to bring the grate up to final grade. If this be the case, I would have to ask #1. was the grate traffic rated and #2. why the grate was not secured in a factory frame compatible with the grate? Translated, the question would read was there a factory frame & grate at this location?

Forgot to mention that if the grate shown in the photo to your left, whether used at this location or any location, is an accident waiting to happen to you cyclists. After I posted my earlier comment I got to thinking about the number of bicycle riders I see daily, Especially since a law was passed that those of us in vehicles must ascertain that we give them a safety margin of three feet as we pass. Why is this type of grate an accident waiting to happen? With those small tires on bicycles today a grate of this design "ain"t" exactly rider friendly. I well remember a young lady who worked for me suffering severe facial injuries from being propelled over the handle bars after her front wheel dropped into one of the openings on a grate of this type. Took many visits to a plastic surgeon to remove the bits of asphalt from her face. You cyclists out there, be careful! There is a grate available that has a design which is bicycle rider friendly.

At least this did not happen...

http://foxnewsinsider.com/2012/04/24/video-girl-falls-through-sidewalk-into-20-foot-sinkhole-in-china/

...and I think this might be the hole Saddam Hussein was found in.

If the city decides to facilitate repairs using the existing grate, since it appears from the photos that tne grate is either a 2 x 2 or 3 x 3, the slots (or openings) should not be parallel to the curb but should be aligned so as to point toward the curb. That way a cyclists could ride across the grate without danger. That is if he/she is riding parallel to the curb. I suppose after working with a major public utility for 35 years and working 13 years in public works/public utilities that safety has become a way of life.

Safety not only saves lives but tax dollars as well . Im sure they could upgrade that with some splost money intended for the area , I believe you got your moneys worth on that old grate .

Nope, no SPLOST money needed. Cut back the pavement and install a heavy duty, traffic rated, frame and bike friendly/heel proof grate. Check out the East Jordan Iron Works products line. Look under grates that are bike friendly and ADA rated.

Jimmy , Are they giving them things away ? LOL . Storm runoff tax money should solve this . We could get this put on the TSPLOST list.

Kevin, good morning. Storm water runoff fee monies cannot be used to rectify this problem. Why? The City of Dacula elected not to be a participating member of the services offered through the Gwinnett County Dept. of Water Resources Storm Water Utility Division when the storm water runoff fee was enacted by the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners in unincorported Gwinnett County.
These services would have included the maintenance and repair of the existing storm water management system within the city limits of Dacula. Each incorporated city within Gwinnett County had the option of becoming a participating member or not. As far as I know, those residents living within the incorporated city limits of Dacula do not pay a storm water runoff fee.

James H. (Jimmy) Orr, Jr.
Member - Gwinnett County Storm Water Authority

I just heard back from the agency handling the liability and the city is not taking any responsibility in this matter. I was told I am 'on my own'.

I filed a claim with my insurance co. and am waiting for a call from the agent. I was told the city is not liable due to no prior knowledge of the problem, even tho I provided letters stating otherwise. I was also told I am responsible because I drove down that road. What I struggle with is the fact that I was driving down a road, drove over an unsecured drain cover which is in the tire path, accumulate thousands of dollars of damage to my car and a City doesn't care. Offers no assistance. But, I said it before and I will say it again, I thank God there was no one in the path of my car.
And, Ms. Reed, thank you for providing needed awareness about this by printing the initial article. I appreciate you.

Good info Jimmy !

Linda- after investigating whether the city can be sued or not- it can be and the basis would be neglect.....you have letters informing the city of the problem and they did not fix it. Did they acknowledge those letters? If not- more neglect- or willful neglect. An attorney will take your case without a retainer and take a portion of your monies awarded. I'm sure the city does not like this publicity. I would contact the tv stations....and the state....

Thank you, Mr. Orr. I will call him first thing Monday morning.

I usually say there are two sides to a pancake but I don't see anyone's side but Ms Linda's here. I sure hope the city urges their insurance company to do the right thing.

Mr. Dreggors, the city has actually done the opposite. I have spoken to their Insurance Co. (Travelers) on numerous occasions and the agent handling this matter has assured me that the City of Dacula wants NO liablity in this matter and has declined any responsibility.When I tried to contact the City Administrator, I was told he has been advised to not take my calls. However, I thank you for recognizing that there really ARE two sides to every story!! (or pancake).

Linda, just wanted to let you know that I have not forgot your situation. I trust you have obtained counsel and he/she is moving in a positive direction on your behalf to get you the just compensation that you deserve. Like Mr. Dreggors wrote, there are two pancakes to every story. Your pancake side turns up on the right side anyway you cut it. BTW, I understand that you are an educator and if so, I appreciate what you do in preparing the young ladies and gentlemen on your watch to become successful participants in this thing we call the game of life.

Mr. Orr, thank you for your kind words. I LOVE my career. I have had the priviledge of working with students with Special Needs for 19 years. I wouldn't do anything else as I learn MUCH more from my students than I will ever teach them.

Have a blessed day.