By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a measure that would raise from $35 to $200 the fine for violating the traffic rule that provides when two vehicles approach or enter an intersection at approximately the same instant, the operator of the vehicle on the left must yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right.

The proposal also imposes additional penalties and/or license revocation for up to six months for any of these violations that cause death, serious bodily harm or bodily harm.

Sponsor Rep. Steven Xiarhos (R-Barnstable) noted the bill is named “Cecelia’s Law” – in memory of Cecelia Finnegan Alldredge of Sagamore who was killed on September 6, 2020, when a car turned in front of her and caused a fatal crash.

“For the past three years, the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association, along with the Finnegan family and myself, have been tirelessly advocating for the passage of a bill aimed at increasing penalties for drivers responsible for accidents like the one that took Cecilia’s life,” said Xiarhos. “With motorcyclist fatalities reaching alarming levels nationwide, it is imperative that we take proactive measures to protect vulnerable road users.”