Sir – Between April and June this year, 800 cyclists were killed or seriously injured on UK roads. Last week saw various letters in The Times and Independent about cycling on pavements. One of the most incisive points was made by a confirmed pavement pedestrian who pointed out that pavement injuries to pedestrians and/or cyclists were slight compared to those (including fatalities) incurred by cyclists on the road.
I was cycling recently in the Woodstock Road on a fairly wide pavement when I was confronted by a man and his dog. I dismounted and beckoned them politely to pass. The man then remarked “It’s illegal to ride on the pavement.” I replied “ It’s also safer.” To which he replied “Yes, I know but it’s illegal.” I rest my case.
Some of the pavements on the Woodstock Road have demarcated cycle lanes. These should be used more widely across the city.
Lastly, reckless cycling on roads or pavements should be dealt with punitively. I am not advocating the Dutch system where the default position is that the motorist is always at fault. This seems illogical and inequitable.
Julian Dare, Oxford
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