State has a Far Right as Practicable Requirement

Massachusetts does not impose a blanket "ride as far right as practicable" mandate; a bicyclist may keep right when a motor vehicle is passing, and has a general duty not to unnecessarily obstruct traffic, but may take the lane where needed for safety.

Allows Two Abreast Riding

Massachusetts allows bicyclists to ride two abreast; on roads with more than one travel lane in the same direction, riders must stay within a single lane.

Single File is Required

There is no general single-file requirement; bicyclists may ride two abreast, though on multi-lane roads they must keep within one travel lane.

Has a Safe Passing Law

Motorists must leave at least four feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist, and may not cut back across a bicyclist's path to turn right immediately after passing.

Helmets are required on the road

Riders and passengers age 16 and under must wear a CPSC-compliant helmet; there is no statewide requirement for adults.

If Bike Lanes are present, they are required ( except when unsafe )

Massachusetts law gives bicyclists the right to use all public ways and does not require riding in a bike lane when one is available.

Riders may use the sidewalks

Sidewalk riding is allowed outside business districts when necessary for safety, unless a local ordinance says otherwise; riders must yield to pedestrians and give an audible warning before passing.

Does the Impeding Statute Apply to Bikes

A bicyclist must not unnecessarily obstruct a faster vehicle attempting to pass, but may still occupy the lane as needed for safety.

Whether cyclists may treat stop signs as yield signs (the "Idaho stop").

Massachusetts has no "stop as yield" (Idaho Stop) law; bicyclists must come to a full stop at stop signs and red signals like any other vehicle.

Restrictions exist on e-bikes and usage

Massachusetts defines and regulates electric bicycles by class: Class 1 (pedal-assist, cuts off at 20 mph) and Class 2 (throttle-assisted, cuts off at 20 mph), each limited to a 750-watt motor. E-bikes are treated as bicycles, not motor vehicles.

Allows the concept of Contributory Negligence that allows any contributory fault resuls in 'no fault'

Massachusetts uses modified comparative negligence: a cyclist can recover damages as long as their own fault is not greater than the combined fault of the defendants, with damages reduced by their share of fault.