RULE OF THE RIGHT.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVII, Issue 106, 6 May 1936, Page 6

RULE OF THE RIGHT.

THE RECOGNISED PRACTICE.

(To the Edltor.l

Your issue of the 2nd inst. reports a comment by Mr. J. L. Stout, S.M., that ho "cannot understand why the authorities persist in the right-hand rule." Also that "it is definitely known that it is adopted from countries like the United States and France," and that "one has only to drive to realise ite abeurdity." I have, previously read similar magisterial comment, I believe by the same gentleman, and its repetition causes me to ask if these views arc shared by motorists to any extent, seeing that I have never heard similar views expressed by anyone, although I am a motorist of nearly 30 years' standing. I am satisfied that the offside rule, properly observed by all, is one of the most useful and mo§t conducive to safe travelling that I know. It was in general uee in England, not ae a regulation, but as a courtesy measure, 15 years ago and long before that. Whether or not Mr. Stout is correct in his remark as to the origin of this rule I do not know, but I seriously question it. In any case, its ori<*in does not matter, but it would be interesting to know in what reepect it could be considered absurd. I can give reasons for it, but cannot think of one against. Our Automobile Association represents a very large number of motorists, and it would bo interesting to motorists generally to receive from the committee an authoritative opinion by that body on the question. If Mr. Stout is in error his individual opinion should not influence inexperienced motorists to disregard the recognised rule of the road. MOTORIST.