WITH reference Brian Derbyshire's letter (Your Views: August 27), where he criticises the authorities for deciding to reduce the level of injuries and number of fatalities inflicted on motorists who crash into concrete and steel lampposts by replacing these lampposts with plastic versions.

Brian Derbyshire's argument is that, because the lampposts are to be plastic, the "irresponsible motorists" will be able to "travel for a considerable distance along the pavement, hitting those pedestrians unfortunate enough to be walking or standing there at the time." And goes on to argue that the change to plastic will positively encourage the motorists to drive even faster and riskier.

What a mis-informed opinion Mr. Derbyshire holds.

The word "plastic" covers a spectrum of materials having a wide range of mechanical properties. For instance, some can, and indeed do, prevent bullets from penetrating through them, saving lives as a consequence. They perform this function better than steel.

"Plastics", when correctly formulated and fabricated, can demonstrate a much greater ability than concrete/steel to absorb shock impacts. And applying this science to lampposts would reduce the severity of impact to the car driver (and innocent passengers!) without the posts being up-rooted. So the fiendish driver would not be able to crash into by-standers -- even when plastic posts are in use.

Peter Inch

Lexington

Kentucky, USA