Madam, – Regarding the ongoing debate about cycling: it is mandatory for cyclists to use cycle tracks where provided unless they are turning left or right, or in the obvious case that a vehicle is parked in the track (SI 274 of 1998). This includes both cycle tracks which have a continuous line and “non-mandatory” (commonly called advisory) cycle tracks which have dashed lines. It is therefore mandatory for cyclists to use both the mandatory and non-mandatory cycle tracks. I apologise if this explanation is confusing, although it does reflect the reality of the confusion we see every day on our streets.
This leads to the perverse situation where non-mandatory cycle tracks do not restrict drivers, but force cyclists out of the way of motorised traffic onto the cycle-tracks. These often place cyclists into positions where they should not be, such as on the left of vehicles which are turning left, and where they will hit opening doors of parked cars.
The “mandatory use” law affects cyclists who, for their own safety, do not use these cycle-tracks. Crucially, it also perpetuates the lack of civility and respect on our roads, when cyclists see drivers in the cycle-tracks and drivers see cyclists not using the cycle tracks.
JAMES LEAHY,
Dublin Cycling Campaign,
Park Terrace, Dublin 8.