Regulations and Enforcement: Two Keys to Safer Bike Lanes

Boston’s bike lane network operates under a fragmented set of regulations that fail to ensure safety for all users. While rules exist against parking in bike lanes or “dooring” cyclists, enforcement remains minimal to nonexistent. Cyclists are expected to follow traffic laws, but there is little guidance or enforcement for drivers, pedestrians, or micromobility users like e-scooters and e-bikes.

The gaps in the regulatory framework are significant:

  • Inconsistent enforcement: Drivers frequently park in bike lanes with little risk of penalties.

  • Micromobility confusion: E-scooters and e-bikes often travel at unsafe speeds in bike lanes without adhering to cycling rules.

  • Cyclist safety equipment: No strict requirements exist for helmets, lights, or reflectors, especially for night riding.

To address these issues, a comprehensive regulation plan is essential:

  1. Regulate bikes and scooters like cars: Require registration, safety inspections, and adherence to standardized traffic laws for all micromobility users.

  2. Establish a police task force for enforcement: Create a dedicated team to oversee compliance, issue penalties for violations, and ensure the safety of all road users.

Did you know?

  • In Boston, drivers and passengers can be ticketed and fined up to $100 for opening car or truck doors into the path of any other traffic, including people biking and people walking. [1]

  • Your taillight must be red and visible from a distance of at least 600 feet. If you’re using reflectors, they must be visible from the back at a distance of at least 600 feet, and they must be visible from the sides too. [1]

  • If your pedals don’t have reflectors, you need to wear reflectors on your ankles. [1]

  • "A motorized bicycle shall not be operated upon any way, as defined in section one within the commonwealth by any person under sixteen years of age, nor at a speed in excess of twenty-five miles per hour. A motorized bicycle shall not be operated on any way by any person not possessing a valid driver's license or learner's permit." [2]

  • “A motorized scooter shall not be operated on any way by a person not possessing a valid driver's license or learner's permit, nor at a speed in excess of 20 miles per hour.” [2]

You most likely were not aware of all these laws about the very roads you drive on in Boston. These are just some of the legal policies pertaining to bike lanes in Boston that are in place to protect citizens, but in practice are never heeded because there is no consequence for doing so. The city needs to start enforcing these laws so that these are not theoretical rules, but rather standards of conduct that are respected by users of the road.

Learning from Leading Cycling Cities: The Netherlands and Beyond

Cities worldwide have developed clear standards of conduct and streamlined enforcement processes to create vibrant, safe cycling environments. Among them, the Netherlands stands out for its well-defined rules and strict enforcement, which ensure order and safety for cyclists.

Cycling Rules in the Netherlands

Dutch cyclists adhere to specific rules designed to maintain flow and safety:

  • Always use bike lanes where available.

  • Keep to the right side of the bike lane; pass other cyclists on the left.

  • Ring your bell when passing to alert others.

  • Signal turns by extending your arm horizontally in the direction of your turn.

  • Ride side-by-side only in pairs.

  • Obey separate traffic lights for cyclists, stopping at orange and red signals.

  • Cycling on sidewalks is strictly prohibited.

 

The Netherlands also employs unique road signs and fines specific to cyclists, emphasizing accountability and safety.

Fines for Cycling Violations in the Netherlands

Violations incur fines to encourage adherence to cycling laws. Key examples include:

Equipment Violations:

  • Missing pedal or wheel reflectors: €45.

  • Missing or broken lights: €70.

  • Non-functional brakes: €70.

  • Missing or broken bell: €45.

Traffic Violations:

  • Failing to stop at a red light: €120.

  • Cycling against the indicated direction: €70.

  • Overtaking before/on a crosswalk: €180.

  • Riding on a motorway: €190.

  • Using a phone or communication device: €160.

Priority Violations:

  • Failing to yield at stop signs, road markings, or pedestrian crosswalks: €120-€180.

  • Not giving priority to buses, trams, or blind pedestrians: €70-€180.

These rules reflect a culture of safety and accountability that extends beyond individual cyclists to ensure a harmonious coexistence on the road. [3]

Insights from Japan

Japan also emphasizes strict enforcement for cyclists. Those caught looking at phones while riding face fines or even jail time, underlining the importance of staying alert and focused. [4]

 

Innovative Enforcement Strategies for Boston’s Bike Lanes

Boston can adopt innovative approaches to improve bike lane enforcement, leveraging technology, community involvement, and policy reforms to create safer streets for all.

 

Technology-Driven Solutions

  • Smart Cameras: Deploy cameras in high-risk areas to monitor bike lanes and automatically ticket violators, as Paris and Chicago have successfully implemented.

  • Cyclist Reporting Apps: Develop apps that allow cyclists to report blocked lanes or hazardous conditions with geotagged evidence.

 

Community Involvement

  • Grassroots Reporting: Empower residents to report violations through easy-to-use platforms, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for safer streets.

 

Policy Shifts

  • Dedicated Traffic Wardens: Hire wardens to focus exclusively on bike lane enforcement until violations decrease to manageable levels.

  • Delivery Company Partnerships: Work with delivery services to train drivers on bike lane compliance and establish accountability programs.

 

Incentives for Compliance

  • Reward Systems: Offer insurance discounts or other incentives for drivers and cyclists who consistently follow safety rules.

Lessons from Other Cities

Boston can draw inspiration from successful enforcement strategies in other cities:

Why Strong Regulations and Enforcement Matter

Improved bike lane regulations and enforcement are essential not just for safety but for fostering a sustainable and equitable urban environment. Enhanced measures can:

  • Increase Safety: Reduce accidents and fatalities for cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers alike.

  • Promote Sustainability: Encourage cycling as a viable alternative, reducing traffic congestion and carbon emissions.

  • Foster Equity: Ensure all road users, regardless of their mode of transport, feel safe and respected.

Boston’s bike lane network stands at a critical juncture. Without decisive action to address gaps in enforcement and infrastructure, the city risks perpetuating a system that discourages cycling and endangers its riders. However, with data-driven enforcement, community involvement, and protected bike lanes, Boston can transform its streets into a model of safety and sustainability.

The time to act is now. A safer, greener, and more accessible Boston is within reach—if we prioritize the rules, accountability, and innovation needed to make it happen.

Article References:

[1] “Bike Laws in Boston” - https://www.boston.gov/departments/boston-bikes/bike-laws-boston

[2] “Massachusetts law about bicycles” - https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-law-about-bicycles#massachusetts-laws

[3] “Cycling the Dutch way: Priority rules, fines, and signs” - https://holland2stay.com/blog/dutch-cycling-rules.html

[4] “Cyclists caught looking at phones in Japan could face up to six months in jail, as new stricter cycling laws take effect” - https://road.cc/content/news/phone-cyclists-japan-could-face-six-months-jail-311067

[5] “Cameras turn tide on bike lane blockers” - https://bicyclenetwork.com.au/newsroom/2018/10/08/cameras-turn-tide-on-bike-lane-blockers/

[6] “After delays, Chicago begins automated ticketing of drivers parked in bike, bus lanes” - https://www.arcamax.com/business/businessnews/s-3474804

[7] “MTA buses will start ticketing bike lane blockers next year” - https://www.amny.com/nyc-transit/mta-buses-ticketing-bike-lane-blockers-2024/

[8] “Austin Switches To Proactive Approach To Catch Bike Lane Blockers” - https://www.kut.org/transportation/2020-01-21/austin-switches-to-proactive-approach-to-catch-bike-lane-blockers

[9] “Iowa City expands enforcement for vehicles parking in bike lanes; violators subject to fines and towing” - https://www.bikeiowa.com/News/9352/iowa-city-expands-enforcement-for-vehicles-parking-in-bike-lanes-violators-subject-to-fines-and-tow