More worrying than quake risk

The Press (Jan 19) highlighted the increasing threat posed by red light runners. Without a doubt, as I go about the roads by bicycle or by car this is more of a worry to me than another earthquake.

However, even if I accept Steve Abley’s contention that with ‘‘right-turn arrows, congestion would go up dramatically’’ I cannot accept that this is more important than allowing drivers to turn right safely.

I certainly see plenty of red light runners but far more common is the running of yellow traffic lights.

The Official New Zealand Road Code says: ‘‘A yellow signal means stop unless you are so close to the intersection that you can’t stop safely. A yellow signal indicates that the lights will soon turn red.’’

Several times I have found cars racing up behind me with the expectation of getting through on a yellow light. One such driver was verbally abusive and threatening. Many Christchurch drivers ignore the danger they put themselves and others in as yellow becomes red before they reach their exit.

Perhaps it is time all learner drivers had to be taught by professionals.

Chris Botur, Hillmorton dispose of both into the respective bins immediately.

Yes, it takes effort. It’s going to take a huge amount more effort to curb climate change, and the responsibility to reduce the production and disposal of plastic waste rests on all of us. We have to start somewhere. Genevieve Long, St Martins