Road discipline and responsibility

Heading this letter Road Discipline would be a misnomer. Discipline does not exist in Malta and definitely not on the roads. The tirade against my comments (September 17) shows that certain persons do not read my letters in full. This is not a fight between two- and four-wheel modes of transport. It should be a fight between the good driver and the irresponsible ones.

My original reaction was against the heavily biased petition to give preferential treatment to cyclists. I am as sorry as the next man for the recent tragedy but this should not be used as a casus belli against motorists. I have already stressed that many motorists leave much to be desired but this does not justify the campaign by cyclists. I might have a jinx in that I regularly meet cyclists who lack discipline. I have seen instances when cyclists do not pull to the side for an ambulance or a fire truck. I have met cyclists who compete with cars and do not allow them to pass. I have encountered cyclists racing amid heavy traffic.

Once again, no one had the temerity to comment on the many faults I had enumerated in a previous letter. The theory of cycling instead of driving is good, but like all other theories, it is nearly impossible to put into practice. Apart from the danger on our difficult roads, inefficient drivers, pot holes, etc. there is also the risk of skidding and getting a shower of dirty water. In an ideal world people should cycle but Malta can hardly be considered to be ideal.

I have already stressed that ADT and the authorities do not know how or are extremely reluctant to impose discipline. Strict and unmanageable parking rules are enforced as these constitute an income to somebody. Far more could be earned in fining road-hogs, junk cars and bad drivers, of whom Malta seems to have a high percentage.

Instead of trying to belittle my comments, all road users should insist with the authorities to exercise discipline. In this regard, cyclists also need proper training, testing and discipline.

Finally, the government should legislate for harsher penalties, especially when deaths do occur. In Malta, there are no points systems. Deaths on the road are treated lightly.

Thus, the cyclists, who object to the term "saints", cannot expect preferential treatment. Discipline should be imposed across the board. To my ardent opponents, please note that I shall not continue on this topic. It is for the authorities to take stock and decide what must be done; parking and speed cameras apart.