Ahhh, summer! The warm weather is finally here offering us the opportunity to get out of the house and enjoy bike rides, road trips and travel to our favorite beaches. To ensure a safe journey, you may want to take a moment to review some safety tips for smooth sailing.
With so many cities and towns offering bike-share programs, sharing the road can often lead to frustration among both motorists and cyclists. Who has the right of way? Why don’t they ride their bike on the sidewalk?
Fortunately, the Trial Court Law Libraries’ have compiled a list of laws and regulations for bicycles, automobiles and traffic regulations/violations for easy review.
The Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition is another great resource. Their website provides information on bicycle laws, maps and locations of local bike paths, trails and so much more.
Cyclists have it easier than motorists in terms of penalties for breaking the rules of the road, but bikers can be ticketed for equipment and moving violations. For instance, the Town of Amherst has adopted a bylaw that a bicyclist may be fined $50 for obstructing pedestrian traffic upon a walkway.
Motorists should take note as well; effective May 20th, Cambridge adopted a new parking violation carrying a fine of $35 for any vehicle obstructing a bicycle lane.
To learn if your area has any fines associated with cycling or sharing the road, please visit our page here.
