Following a recent incident, I felt compelled to weigh into the debate regarding the taxi v tuk-tuk discussion in Brighton.

Three months ago I decided to give up my car and rely on walking/ taxi/bus to get around the city.

To my astonishment I have found walking around Brighton is dangerous for a pedestrian.

I've had more close calls from crossing roads and cars driving out of driveways than in six years of driving.

Unfortunately the primary cause of my concern is the licensed taxi drivers who seem to either not know the road rules or care.

I had the unpleasant experience of a near miss while crossing a road where the taxi should have given way.

Upon confronting the driver, to my astonishment he stated that I walked on to the intersection on purpose.

Of course I did, as is my right.

In support of this, he had no indicator. He wasn't even close to the intersection at the time I left the curb, not to mention I had right of way.

I'm now resolved as a supporter of the tuk-tuk invasion of Brighton.

I've heard the taxi argument that the tuk-tuks are dangerous for all sorts of unfounded reasons.

However, from experience, it's more dangerous being a pedestrian in this town as a result of licensed taxis.

  • David Field, director, ChannelConnect UK Ltd Lansdowne Place, Hove