My criticism of the evidence recently reported by the Bicycle Advocacy Group to support cycling as an alternative mode of local transport has had a positive outcome in Jim Wightman’s commendable piece ‘One way to beat traffic’ (May 18), which outlines safety measures for cyclists.

However, he does not refer to Section III of the Highway Code, which defines rules for cyclists on Maltese roads.

Cyclists have a number of obligations which Wightman has failed to mention, such as obligatory helmet use, mandatory observance of all traffic signs and traffic lights, mandatory use of cycle lanes, having to dismount to use pelican lights or zebra crossings and the mounting of both front and rear lights, besides rear reflectors.

Cyclists are obliged to cycle on the left side of the road unless using a two-way cycle lane and to ride in single file. Before moving away from the kerb or turning they are obliged to look all around and give a clear signal. They are advised not to make sudden swerving movements without warning other road users.

In approaching a junction, cyclists must watch out for vehicles turning ahead of them and must not ride on the inside of vehicles turning left across their path. If turning right, they must check traffic behind them, make a signal and then cross the road in stages, lane by lane.

As such, Wightman’s advice to cyclists is incomplete. This is quite serious, since here one is not debating differing opinions or interpretations of the available evidence but actual respect ofthe law.

In particular, his advice to cyclists to “take the lane” and block other road users at junctions, or to prevent a car overtaking them, is irresponsible and illegal.