Boston makes upgrades, but drivers still need to stay alert
Boston is taking another step toward safer streets for bicyclists. This fall, the city began replacing the plastic flexible-post bollards that separate bike lanes from car traffic with more durable barriers, starting on Arlington Street in the Back Bay.
As reported by StreetsblogMASS, these new installations, including Zicla “Zebra” barriers and cast-in-place concrete islands, are part of a broader initiative to improve cyclist protection throughout Boston. The goal is clear: to make biking safer and reduce bicycle accidents involving cars and trucks.
City officials acknowledge that the old flexible posts were never ideal. They were easily damaged, provided little real protection, and often frustrated both drivers and cyclists. Jascha Franklin-Hodge, Boston’s Chief of Streets, told StreetsblogMASS that the city is now testing a variety of new materials that will better separate vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians while still allowing access for emergency vehicles.
How is Boston improving cyclist safety?
On Arlington Street, workers are installing “Zebra” barriers. These are sleek, reflective domes that are bolted into the pavement between the bike lane and traffic. Unlike plastic posts, these barriers can withstand impact and are highly visible to drivers.
Elsewhere in the city, crews will soon install cast-in-place concrete curbs known as “CIPCON” barriers along parts of Boylston Street and other major roadways. These barriers can be built quickly without excavation, allowing Boston to expand its protected bike network in months rather than years.
How can drivers prevent bicycle accidents?
These improvements represent progress, but infrastructure alone can’t prevent all bicycle accidents. Even the most carefully designed bike lanes depend on responsible behavior from everyone on the road.
Drivers in Boston and throughout Massachusetts should be especially cautious when driving near cyclists. Common causes of crashes include:
- Failing to check blind spots or mirrors before turning or merging.
- Opening car doors into the path of cyclists (“dooring”).
- Driving or parking in bike lanes, even for a few moments.
- Passing too closely, which can force cyclists off balance or off the road.
The Massachusetts Vulnerable Road User Law, which took effect in 2023, requires drivers to leave at least four feet of space when passing a cyclist. It’s also important to slow down near bike lanes and intersections, areas where many serious collisions occur.
Injured? Contact a Massachusetts bicycle accident lawyer today
Despite new safety measures, bicycle crashes still happen, often because a driver wasn’t paying attention. When a cyclist is injured, they may face costly medical bills, lost income, and a long recovery. Insurance companies are quick to minimize claims or shift blame, even when the driver was clearly at fault.
That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced legal advocate on your side. The Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone has a proven record of standing up for injured bicyclists across Massachusetts. Our attorneys know how to investigate crashes, hold negligent drivers accountable, and fight for the full compensation victims deserve.
As Boston strengthens its bike lanes, let’s all do our part to make the streets safer. Infrastructure can help protect cyclists, but driver awareness and accountability are what truly save lives.
If you've been injured, contact us today for a free consultation. There are no up-front costs, and you pay nothing unless we win your case. Give yourself the Salomone Advantage. "Tell Them You Mean Business!"
"First time needing legal representation for a car accident, and the team at Mark E. Salomone helped me through every step of the way. Dreading the long and tedious process, they made my case turnover faster than I could’ve anticipated. Also, a special thanks to Alexis Navedo for keeping me in the loop through the whole process and answers any and all questions I’ve had. Thank you so much for representing me and advocating for me." - Sierra B., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐