Chief’s Corner

By Chief Steven J. Wojnar

Dudley Police Department

            As a follow up to my last column regarding pedestrians, I was asked to provide more information about bicycles on roadways.  Bicycle use is authorized on most roads in the commonwealth.  In some areas, bicycle paths are present for only these purposes.  I was asked to remind people of the pertinent laws about bicycle use.
            Chapter 85 of the Massachusetts General Laws has most of the rules governing bicycles.  As a general rule, bicyclists must observe the same safety rules as motor vehicles.  There are a few exceptions to these rules. They are allowed to pass vehicles within a lane on the right and they may use sidewalks outside business districts if not prohibited.  In this case, bicycles must yield the right of way to pedestrians.
            Section 11B also provides other controls and limits.  These include riding in a single file fashion.  Also, any passengers must be carried on a seat or in a trailer towed behind.  Helmets are also required by anyone under age sixteen and bicycles may not be "drawn" by any motor vehicle.  Other restrictions are included in this section.
            The laws governing bicycle use are in place to provide for additional safety.  Vehicle operators may not see a bicycle, in much the same fashion as a motorcycle.  When riding for recreation or otherwise, assume car drivers do not see you and take the necessary precautions.  By sharing the road in a responsible fashion, you can avoid accidents and prevent injuries.  

            The Dudley Patrolmen’s Association annual fundraiser is underway.  All Pro Productions is making phone calls for donations and representatives of the police department should be on hand to assist with any questions people may have.  The fundraiser will run until early June.  As was the case the last two years, a softball game against the New England Patriots All Stars is planned for mid June.  As a reminder, if you wish to make a donation and are at all concerned about the methods of collection, you can mail this to or drop it off at the station on West Main Street.   If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office.  The Association and I wish to thank everyone in advance for their generosity.

            I wish to thank Principal Cafelle and her staff at the Dudley Elementary School for allowing myself and Sergeant Daniels to participate in their first ever family reading event held on Thursday May 11th.  The teachers and students worked hard in various activities and many stories were read.  The night is intended to promote and encourage reading as a family fun activity.  My thanks again to all involved for their dedication to the Town’s youth.

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