Result Of A Protest

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31681, 17 May 1968, Page 9

Result Of A Protest

TJUMOURS of a protest against his powerful Wasp car came to the ears of its driver, Ray Harroun, not long before the start of the first Indianapolis 500 race in 1911. Harroun would be a hazard on the track, other drivers were saying. He did not carry a riding mechanic who could keep him informed of cars coming up from behind.

“It’s ridiculous,” said Harroun when he heard of the rumours. “Well, if they’re only worried about how I’ll see cars closing in from behind, I can rig up a mirror like one I saw on a carriage in Chicago.”

So Harroun’s car went to the start with a mirror, eight inches long and three Inches wide, supported by two five-inch-long iron bars, mounted on its cowl. He could see under it without difficulty, and by raising his eyes slightly he could see to the rear. Two long rods from the top of the mirror frame to the forward edge of the cowling prevented vibration. Thus the first car rearvision mirror came into being. And six hours, 42 minutes and eight seconds later, Harroun brought the Wasp over the line to become the first winner of the Indianapolis 500.

SAFETY DEVICE The rear vision mirror is one of the most effective safety devices ever developed for driving. At first opponents said it was too distracting, but it soon became apparent that it was an essential for safe driving in traffic. Driving is safer and easier, when the driver can tell the position of other vehicles around him at a glance. Rear vision mirrors allow this to be done without loss of concentration.

Traffic regulations say that every motor vehicle must be fitted with the mirror positioned so that the driver, while retaining his correct driving position can obtain a clear view of an overtaking vehicle. Modern cars, because of their design, allow excellent all-round vision. Slimmer, stronger roof support pillars, larger windows, better plate glass windows and windscreens angled to eliminate reflections, improved rear vision mirrors made even more effective because of the larger window areas, wrap around windscreens and rear windows, all combine to provide better visibility. MORE EFFECTIVE

The increased glass areas in modern cars have made the rear vision mirror more effective than ever, and with the proper placement of mirrors —both inside and outside—blind spots can be eliminated. Rear vision mirrors, which should be kept clear and properly adjusted at all times, should be used constantly. Side mirrors—either a single mirror or one on each side of the car—are additional aids to safe driving. They are particularly useful when merging with traffic on laned highways ajid as a check on overtaking motorists. Although the rear vision mirror is now universally used and has become an integral part of the car, improvements are continually being made. Improvements in the last few years include greater field of vision, reduction of glare, day-night adjustment features, and safety backings. Rear vision mirrors are only used properly when they are used consistently. Attention to the rear vision mirror can play a tremendous part in improving your safety on the road.

Adjust the rear vision mirror before starting the engine

of your car, and whenever possible glance before braking.

Mirrors should always be used when: approaching an intersection; changing lanes; pulling out from the kerb; approaching mandatory traffic signs, such as “stop” and “give way” signs, overtaking, and making a right, left or U turn.

The proper use of the rear vision mirror can help to avoid accidents and will certainly make you a safer, more courteous driver.