Having just survived another week of HGV intimidation at the Pear Tree roadworks, may I offer some thoughts?

One lorry in particular followed me so closely and with such aggressive flashing and horn-blowing that I felt in real danger, so I looked up the company’s website.

The company turned out to be about to lose its licence to trade because of tacograph irregularities.

So do the drivers feel under such pressure to complete their journeys in a set time that they need to drive like maniacs?

I also seem to remember that when the A34 was resurfaced some years ago, there was a blanket 40mph limit between Pear Tree and the M40.

I observed this limit for several months and then it was revealed that the cameras contained no film all that time – and that the idiots who had streamed past me, putting the road workers and other motorists in danger, had never been caught.

It might be suggested that I should go equipped with a radar detector, and join the throngs of speeders. But are these speed limits not imposed for reasons of public safety?

If I had a cloak of invisibility, would I be allowed to mug old ladies because I could get away with it?

This is not just about some temporary roadworks, of course.

When the 20mph limit is introduced on residential roads in Oxford, I shall be observing it.

I dread to think of the road rage I shall be encountering though – probably on a road near you.

Martin Roberts Botley Oxford