Whereas the rest of us roadusers have to obey strict rules, many cyclists seem to think none of these apply to them.

They assume that because they can see other road-users (including pedestrians), others can see them.

In the long winter nights without lights, this attitude is little short of suicidal, but it can also apply in bright conditions. They do not seem to realise how easily they can be lost against background clutter or the shade of overhanging trees, nor how quickly other vehicles can be upon them often before even the drivers themselves are aware.

It takes a split-second for a collision to occur. Not only must they see, but it is vital they can be seen.

To this end, high-vis clothing or backpack-covers make a massive difference to how quickly other road-users notice cyclists, especially peripherally.

The Health and Safety Executive is obsessed with others using them for the slightest risk, but it should also become law for cyclists to wear them at all times, day or night. Bright bike-lighting is excellent but cannot be seen from the side. Even serious cyclists with expensive racing outfits frequently don’t wear high-vis clothing.

Provided cyclists obey the Highway Code and can be clearly seen, there should be little problem. These rules are there for the common good.

However, all too often we see cyclists who are virtually invisible or blatantly ignore the rules of the road. Ignoring red lights, riding against one-way traffic, mounting pavements... I could go on. The police appear to do very little about this.

Any cyclist without lights should have their bikes confiscated until lights are fitted.

As for those idiots who ride a bike while wearing headphones or ear-pieces, they should be prosecuted for riding without care and attention. These mavericks cannot be allowed to go on putting themselves and others at risk.

The police have had excellent bicycle patrols in the past; these should be expanded and a concerted effort made to crack-down on cyclists who refuse to obey the rules of the road.

They, in cooperation with bike shops, could run a campaign to educate young people on the dangers of the road.

Nigel Davis, Hollingdean Terrace, Brighton

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