Sir, - I suggest that current problems of gridlocking, speeding and road deaths can be placed firmly at the door of the car lobby. We are bombarded daily on TV, radio and in the press with inducements from manufacturers, importers, main dealers and local garages to purchase bigger, better and faster new models.On TV, these modern marvels are shown accelerating at start-off, handling smooth traffic-free surfaces at speed and stopping inchperfectly. All manoeuvres are executed in a style attainable only by skilled professional drivers. The advertised new engine modifications, all-round air-bags (for extra safety in high speed crashes!), superior tyres suited to both high-speed driving and braking at speed, quicker acceleration from standstill - all lead to the complacency which threatens other road users, particularly unwary and elderly pedestrians, especially at traffic lights. The extra and bigger headlamps now fitted are frequently used without due consideration, regularly blinding oncoming traffic.Unfortunately, it is in the modern Irish nature to flaunt new and superior possessions. No way are those in the Dublin area who purchase these marvels going to leave them at home; instead, they will continue to parade them (usuallywith one occupant) on the approaches to the city centre. I am surprised that the Luas report predicts a reduction as high as 1 per cent in the daily gridlocked processions in and out of town. - Yours, etc.,David Ferguson,Abercorn, Dublin 18.