Why blame the cyclists?

When the BBC reported the tragic death of four cyclists in North Wales there was a sadly predictable flurry of calls and texts to Five Live from motorists effectively blaming the cyclists for being on the road.
They seemed to be ignoring the evidence that the group involved in the accident were from a respected cycling club and very experienced. Is this the time to heap scorn on the cycling community?
All I will say in response to the motorists who feel so superior in their cars - when was the last time a cyclist killed a motorist in a collision? Cyclists deserve respect and space on the road. We don't pollute the atmosphere, are healthier and often get there sooner than people who only drive cars.