A cyclist's invitation

Roger Castillo (September 9) finds it important news that an elderly woman was hit and killed by a cyclist. Sorry, but what exactly is the point of the letter? Because I don't get it.

Is he trying to tell us to ban cycling for kids? Perhaps he should have checked how many people were killed in Italy while driving, if that is the case.

If Mr Castillo or any driver wants to know how cyclists are treated in Malta, then he can join me for a short ride and he will know what it's like to have a large trailer pass by 50cm from his head at full speed.

This when the outer lane is free for overtaking. But why should the truck driver bother to change lanes?

Bicycles do not damage trucks. From a group of four cyclists three were hit by cars in two weeks and the excuse of the drivers was always the same: "Sorry, I did not see you". Of course, it is a proven fact that you do not see what you are not looking out for especially if you are busy eating, drinking, chatting or sending an SMS which cannot wait till you arrive safely at your destination - which in Malta is a maximum of 15 minutes away.

While on the subject it is worth mentioning that a day of driving in Malta will give you an average of 30km/h at most.

It's very interesting to note that a person of average fitness can easily cycle for a couple of hours at that speed, the added fitness and feeling of freedom being added bonuses.

If only we had a transport authority which was proactive we would get somewhere but as it does not involve fines the ADT will not show much interest.