DRIVING LESSON No: 2 - Stop Signs

A stop sign is a traffic sign, usually erected at road junctions, that instructs drivers to stop and then to proceed only if the way ahead is clear.




The use of such signs, and the logic behind it, is simple and clear. It does not require a doctorate in nuclear physics or any related subject. Even if no such signs were to exist, it is common sense to stop when venturing out of a side road or into a road where visibility of traffic is limited. And when I mean traffic I am not only referring to cars but to motorcycles, bicycles and horses – although the latter instances should be avoided as much as possible.

The Maltese islands do not offer us, cyclists, the luxury of being able to venture out in the countryside and cycle for kilometres on end in peaceful, unpolluted roads. In order to practice our sport we are forced to risk our lives on the main arterial roads. I do enjoy that adrenaline rush, but my self preservation levels are quite high, so I do take extra caution when cycling on the main roads, however there is little respect towards us and sometimes the risk of an accident is way beyond my control. Such attitude makes us feel as if we are invisible. How many times do I have to swerve onto the centre of the road, risking being hit by a passing car, to avoid a car coming out of a side road? Just because no other cars can be seen doesn’t mean they just drive out?

Some drivers are oblivious of the fact that roads are also used, legally, by cyclists and these should be respected at least on the same level as they would respect another car. Some drivers might not realise the implications of being involved in an accident with a cyclist. Do they realise how unprotected we are compared to when travelling in a car?

So when you are out there, driving to wherever destination is next on your agenda, please spare a thought on those cyclists who are either trying to keep a healthy lifestyle, or doing their bit towards the environment or else training for a worthy cause!