Loitering Motorists

Press, Volume XCVII, Issue 28573, 30 April 1958, Page 3

Loitering Motorists

Sir,—Like “A Seeing Mind.’’ I was astounded to read the remarks of Mr Paton, because it was obvious to me that he had not carefully analysed the ages of the offending motorists. With a friend who, like myself, travels over 750 miles a month, I made I several visits over the following

roads: Sumner, Marshland, Hills, Briggs, Main North, Colombo street, and several minor routes. The main offenders were young motorists and older drivers always in a hurry. We also viewed several pedestrian crossings. In the main, taxi drivers are competent and considerate drivers but there are a few who barge in and approach pedestrian crossings at an execessive speed. 1 was pleased to learn that the Government is being supported by the local traffic authorities, the A.A.C., and insurance companies in a determined effort to restrain impatient motor and truck drivers.—Yours, etc., COMMON SENSE. April 26, 1958.

Sir, —Slow drivers, if they keep to the left, are not “dangerous.” It is the correct speed for learners, new drivers, elderly people, mothers with young children, and those with breakable parcels. Under 30 m.p.h. is pleasant driving for motorists who prefer not to join the mad rush. To change down and reduce speed as the Road Code requires even when clear signals are given, brings impatient toots and glares from the ill-mannered. Surely it is more adult and intelligent to obey traffic rules for railway and pedestrian crossings and blind corners, and to keep within speed limits in restricted areas, than to flout them like conceited delinquents? Recently I drove to Timaru and saw every form of dangerous driving on the Main South road, the only safe ones being those who kept within the speed limit. We are told that “speed kills,” so slow drivers should be Encouraged.—r Yours, etc., THE TORTOISE.. April 29, 1958.