Displaying items by tag: Biking Safety

Sharing the Road with Motorists

National Bike Month, sponsored by the League of American Bicyclists and celebrated in communities from coast to coast, was established in 1956 to advocate for a bike friendly America, to showcase the many benefits of bicycling, and to encourage more people to try bicycling. Although this year's events are on hold due to coronavirus, the organization is encouraging people to get on bicycles and ride.

Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker has relaxed the stay at home order, and bicycling is a great way to get out of the house as well as enjoy fresh air and exercise. However, a bicycle is classified as a vehicle, which means bicyclists riding on the roads must obey the same basic traffic laws and regulations that apply to motor vehicle operators.

Before you dust off your bike, fill your tires with air, and map your route, know the rules of the road.

Laws for Bicyclists and Motorists in the Presence of Bicyclists (as amended by Chapter 525 of the Acts of 2008)¹

According to Massachusetts Rules of the Road, Chapter 4, "Bicyclists have the right to use all public ways in this state except limited access or express state highways where signs specifically prohibiting bicycles have been posted. When riding on public ways, bicyclists must obey the same basic traffic laws and regulations that apply to motor vehicle operators. The rules for bicycles (including amendments) are listed [below]."