Mass. Drivers Could Soon Pay for Bike Lane Violations

Bicyclists in Massachusetts are inching closer to another victory in the longstanding War of the Roadways.

A piece of legislation landed on the governor's desk this week that would penalize drivers with a ticket of up to $50 for bike lane violations. The bill specifically targets motorists who stop or park in bike lanes.

As more roadways have been converted to include bike lanes, local municipalities have implemented their own regulations – most notably bicycle-centric communities like Cambridge and Boston – but the bill would establish a blanket rule across the state.

Sen. William Brownsberger, a Democrat from Belmont, told State House News Service that exemptions would be made in emergencies and a breach of the law would not be considered a moving violation, which can impact insurance rates.

Gov. Baker has 10 days to sign the bill into law.

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