Massachusetts has embraced cycling, with extensive bike lanes and trails in Boston, Cambridge, and beyond. But sharing crowded, historic streets with cars, trucks, and buses leaves cyclists dangerously exposed. When a driver opens a door into a bike lane or fails to yield, the cyclist pays the price.
Cyclist Rights and Driver Duties in Massachusetts
Massachusetts law treats bicycles as vehicles with the right to use the road. Drivers must pass cyclists at a safe distance and may not cut them off when turning. Massachusetts also has a specific 'dooring' law — under M.G.L. c. 90, § 14, it is illegal to open a car door into the path of traffic, including a cyclist, and a driver or passenger who does so can be held liable for the resulting crash.
Despite these protections, cyclists in Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, and other dense communities face constant danger from distracted drivers, vehicles turning across bike lanes, and doors flung open without looking.
Common Causes of Massachusetts Bicycle Crashes
The most frequent bicycle crashes involve drivers turning right across a cyclist's path, failing to yield at intersections, opening doors into bike lanes, and passing too closely. Poor road conditions — potholes, frost heaves, and debris — also cause serious cycling injuries. Because a cyclist has no protective cage, even a minor collision can result in fractures, head injuries, and road rash.
Compensation and Insurance for Injured Cyclists
If you are struck by a motor vehicle while cycling, the driver's PIP coverage generally applies to your initial medical bills and lost wages, just as it would for a pedestrian. When your injuries meet the statutory threshold, you can pursue the at-fault driver for full compensation, including medical costs, lost income, bike and equipment damage, and pain and suffering.
After a Bicycle Crash in Massachusetts
Get medical care right away and keep your damaged bike and gear as evidence. Photograph the scene, the vehicle, and any bike-lane markings or doors involved. Collect witness information and the driver's insurance details, and report the crash to police. Do not let the insurer minimize your injuries. Massachusetts generally allows three years to file a lawsuit, but prompt action preserves crucial evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Massachusetts law makes it illegal to open a car door into traffic. A driver or passenger who doors a cyclist can be held liable for the resulting injuries.
Generally yes. The driver's PIP coverage typically pays initial medical bills and lost wages, and you can pursue the at-fault driver for full compensation when your injuries meet the threshold.
Generally three years from the date of the crash under Massachusetts law.
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