Cyclists have to act responsibly on roads

Sir, – Lately, driving about for shopping, I have witnessed several bicycle riders on the roads being nearly invisible.

I have seen some nearmisses, caused by bike riders approaching the big roundabouts in Glenrothes.

Riding on their bikes, black clothes, black head covers, no reflectors on the back, no lights at the front, no hi-vis vests or other clothing that make the traffic around them aware of their presence.

On bright days, with the sun low and blinding in this period of the year, as a car driver you can barely see the bicycle riders.

As walkers go out on country walks, cyclists come whizzing past, giving people a real fright. The use of a small bell, especially for bicycles, mounted on the handlebar, can be used to make walkers

aware that bike-riders are approaching

At dusk cyclists are difficult to see, especially on our winding country roads. These riders pose a real risk, to themselves as well as for car drivers.

As motorists, we are lawfully obliged to give cyclists enough space while overtaking, to keep them safe.

In my opinion, it should be made mandatory by law that bicycle riders wear hi-vis material, and have clear, bright, lights front and back on their bikes.

Not a flimsy small little blob, but a clear visible light.

In the Netherlands, where I come from, it is the law that bike riders cycling in the dark have proper lights front and back, reflecting tyres, and hi-vis clothing. If they do not, they will get a hefty fine when caught by the police.

Maaike Cook.

Cash Feus, Strathmiglo.