New Somerville Bike Regulations, One Could Lead to Tickets

The Somerville Traffic Commission approved two measures this month that should make life easier for bicyclists—and possibly lead to tickets for motorists.

First, according to a Facebook post by the Somerville Bicycle Committee, new regulations—actually, they're changes to old regulations—mean bicyclists are no longer required to stay in bike lanes wherever bike lanes exist.

The modified regulations also mean bicyclists, who generally ride on the side of the road, do not need to yield to cars that are turning right.

Second, according to the Facebook post, is a law stating cars cannot park in bike lanes. If they do, they could get a $50 ticket.

Minutes from the May 16 Traffic Commission meeting show both measures passed unanimously.

The minutes indicate the first series of measures were changes to city regulations that conflicted with Massachusetts state law. Changing them brings the city code up to date with state law.

The minutes also indicate the second measure, about not parking in bike lanes and the potential $50 fine, will likely need to go before the Somerville Board of Aldermen for approval.