[*BCM*] editorial for today

[Jim Leonard]

On Thu, 17 Aug 2006, turtle wrote:

> Boston Critical Mass <list at bostoncriticalmass.org> wrote:
>
> > Except for:
> >    Bicyclists should stay at the edge of the right hand lane when there
> >    is not a bike lane, unless making a left turn, in which case they can
> >    use the left lane.
>
> Yeah, would someone please send the Globe a letter clarifying that this
> is not a law?

...

> I'd do it, but I already send the Globe too many letters, and I think
> they just ignore me now :-)

I sent the following to the letters section of The Globe (which is only
slightly different from what you wrote, I hope you don't mind...):

I appreciated seeing Marika Plater's letter "Bicyclists belong on the
roads, too" however I wish to correct one significant factual error.  She
states that "Bicyclists should stay at the edge of the right hand lane
when there is not a bike lane, unless making a left turn, in which case
they can use the left lane."  Legally bicyclists have EXACTLY the same
requirements and rights for using the entire roadway as all other vehicles
- for the most part, it's stay in the RIGHT TRAVEL LANE unless passing,
turning or it's otherwise unsafe to do so. (Cyclists may be permitted to
ride in shoulders, but the law is not at all clear on this.)

In addition to her statements, only signs on limited access highways can
legally prohibit bicycling.  ALL other roads and "highways" are open to
cyclists no matter what is posted.

-- jim