Steve,
Sorry to hear the bad news. If there is one thing I have learnt building is that all things can be repaired. I'm not heading to SF either, so I can't help you there.
Despite the v8 rumble at the lights I've still had a few people cut into my outside lane at right hand (left hand for the yanks) turn lanes at the lights. As people say, it's the height of these things that causes problems. The solution is to do what bikes do, get out in front for all to see. Most people seem to appreciate it too
