Licences for cyclists?

Published: 28 April, 2011

• NOT wishing to cause distress over the terrible death of another cyclist in Camden, I would however say this: cycling has always had an element of danger and, as a former cyclist, I know as much about it as anyone. 

But it is time to take a serious look at the problem. 

We hear the same arguments about more cycle lanes, better awareness by motorists, especially lorry drivers, but when will cyclists learn to obey rules of the road?

Every day I witness many who cycle over red lights, take the inside lane of large vehicles, where they cannot be seen, and illegally cycle on pavements. 

Time and again I have been bumped into, sworn at and narrowly avoided being seriously injured by someone cycling on the pavement, which is my space, as a pedestrian to feel safe. 

If some cyclists feel unsafe on the roads then they should not be there as they are a danger to themselves and everyone else. I would like to see cyclists licensed and have insurance. They use the road so why should they be exempt?

And those caught cycling on pavements should be fined. The constant reference to cycling in Amsterdam is a nonsense. You simply cannot compare the two cities. 

EILEEN FRY 
Tavistock Place, WC1