I disagree with Stuart Bower (December 19). There are few crashes on the road that are genuine, unavoidable accidents.

The responsibility usually lies with one or more individuals who fail to exercise proper care and attention when driving or riding.

Stuart goes on to hint that riding a motorcycle is just asking for trouble. This has echoes of the argument that says provocatively dressed women are "asking to be attacked".

I drive a car and also ride a motorcycle and am well aware of which is the more dangerous to my health and well-being.

As a result, I have endeavoured to get as much advanced training as possible in an attempt to minimise the risks.

The busy and congested state of today's roads simply means the levels of skill and judgement required to drive or ride on them safely are higher than they used to be. We all need to accept our abilities, when it comes to driving or riding, need to be continuously developed to keep pace with modern conditions.

We all should consider taking some form of advanced training - just passing the standard Government driving test is not enough to ensure we are safe on the roads.

That's why professional drivers/riders such as police or paramedics undergo some of the most advanced training available.

-Mike Protheroe, Farnefold Road, Steyning