Dangerous bicycle lanes

Recently while cycling from Mġarr towards Mosta I opted to use the bicycle lane, which is part of the sidewalk, rather than continue along the roadway. A bad decision - I ended up being thrown over the bike, because of the inappropriate state of the lane. Luckily I had a helmet on, which prevented very serious injuries even though I suffered several cuts and bruises.

Next time you see cyclists using the roadway rather than the bicycle lane, it is not because they are showing off, but because these supposed bike lanes are a joke. They were not created with the safety of cyclists in mind as one encounters all sorts of hazards along them. A thorough evaluation of the various bicycle lanes by competent professionals will surely establish how safe they are.

It seems that to make matters worse, these lanes have never had any maintenance done to them since they were introduced. They are littered with shattered glass and gravel and obstructed by protruding branches, overgrown weeds and uncovered gaps.

No doubt that bicycle lanes and wide curb lanes can and should be used to improve riding conditions for cyclists. However, most of them were poorly planned and are often dangerous. ADT and other responsible authorities should do their utmost to ensure the safety of cyclists especially in the light of growing concerns over the need to have alternative means of transport.