Debate on cyclists and speed limits

I DID anticipate a negative response to my recent letter but in essence I would contend that if you are on a course of action then one could use statistics to make the case.

Essentially, my contention was that for some time now the motorist has been seen as the ‘bete noire’ and whatever accident occurs it is almost always the motorist to blame, hence making his/her life such a misery that he/she will vacate the car and buy a bike!

What with speed limits and low traffic neighbourhoods, queuing cars and empty cycle lanes, I tend not to take my car out unless it is necessary – the short trips referred to in one letter are very often to the supermarket and with the best will in the world I personally cannot carry a week’s shopping on my bike!

The current 30mph speed limit was set in 1934 – since then we have had considerable improvements in braking systems (power and ABS), road surfaces, NCAP ratings, tyres and suspension, etc.

Why is now the time to substantially reduce the speed limit?

Also I contend that we all have a responsibility for road safety and pedestrians have a part to play in that.

I always endeavour to be courteous and respectful to pedestrians (and cyclists) and expect them to use common sense when crossing a road, not just jay walk in front of me as if I don’t exist, which occurred to me recently.

Probably just worth mentioning with regard to the comment about Denmark, that the topography of that country differs hugely from the UK – mostly flat – hence there are fewer bike journeys.

There are no doubt areas where 20mph is considered an appropriate speed, but mostly if one drives to conditions then they are areas where one cannot safely exceed 20mph.

With regard to the comment about the Green Cross Code, my point is, which I clearly did not make very well, is that the code no longer features on any of the media and hasn’t for many years, as far as I am aware.

This is just as important as regulating speed. I still contend that there is no strong case for blanket 20mph speed limits – unfortunately I have never been asked.

Finally a note of caution. A longstanding acquaintance of mine was exiting the road in which he lives in his car when a cyclist came around the corner and went into the side of his car (he was stationary as the bike hit).

A door mirror was ripped off and two body panels severely gouged. The cyclist was very apologetic, admitted liability and said he would pay for the damage.

Without going into detail, after initial communication the cyclist went incommunicado and my acquaintance ended up with a £600 bill for repairs. Shouldn’t cyclists be insured?

Michael Green Cornwall