A FEW weeks ago I was cycling along a street in Florida as I have on many previous visits when a disturbing thought struck me.

I was riding on the left-hand side of the road as I might in UK. Should I not be on the right? I paused to reconsider. Of course I was correct. Cyclists and pedestrians in the US always face the approaching traffic.

I began to take notice. Not only did I have adequate warning but approaching vehicles took steps to avoid me.

There were no vehicles overtaking too closely from behind or cutting in front of me. Still less there was no impatient hooting as if to say, "get out of my way. You are going too slowly and there is no room for me to overtake."

Unlike in Britain I had a feeling that I had a right to be on the road. There was no sidewalk in this street. Where there is a sidewalk, pedestrians and cyclists use that. Of course, there are not so many pedestrians as in UK but there is no sense of sidewalks being for the exclusive monopoly of pedestrians.

Users maintain a constant awareness of each other and cycling is a pleasurable experience. Indeed, I would suggest that because of this, many elderly people like myself cycle rather than use a car.

With this experience fresh in mind, my attention is directed to Paul Wilson's letter (Letters, Monday, April 4) and I must say I agree with him. Nothing is to be gained by dogmatic enforcement of laws enacted to meet the requirements of a bygone age.

The bicycle is a useful vehicle that helps to increase mobility of the elderly and reduce dependency on cars. Its use should be encouraged. At present, I regret to say, it seems to be regarded with disfavour by all other road users in this country and one is exposed to many risks and hazards when taking to two wheels.

JOHN HINTON, Worcester.