MOTORDOM

Dominion, Volume 31, Issue 153, 25 March 1938, Page 15

MOTORDOM

Chassic.

IMPORTANCE OF VISION TO THE REAR

One’s Duty To Traffic Which Is Following

While the motorist has that definite and important first duty of keeping a proper lookout ahead as well as to the immediate side or ids vehicle, he also has a clear duty to show consideration for following traffic. Many complaints are made by motorists against others oi seeming disregard for following traffic. Apparently many drivers are unaware of their obligations toward road-users in the real.

Why this is particularly mentioned is the tendency which many drivers have of so cluttering up the rear compartment of the car that rear-view vision is impossible. In their wisdom, the manufacturers of many modern cars make provision behind the top of the rear seat swab for the carriage of small parcels, books, etc., and it has been noted that various oddments are piled up to such an extent that the purpose of the rear window is entirely negatived. Even cushions have been carried in the space mentioned. If one 'has an outside rear-view mirror, of course, the cluttering up of the rear window is a matter of no great importance, but the trouble is that the majority of cars have the mirror attached at the top or bottom of the windscreen. The law demands rearview mirrors, and if their usefulness is affected by blocking the view in the manner suggested the motorist is leaving himself open to an official reminder of his neglect. To drive with an utter disregard for following traffic is to display discourtesy to such traffic, as well as to create an element of danger for oneself and the other fellow.

It is'most important in carrying out one's ordinary driving duties to give proper signals of one’s intention to change direction. It is a courtesy to the following driver, at least, and linked with such courtesy is the necessity of frequent reference to an effective rear-view mirror so that one may know what is following. What is behind one’s vehicle is not as important as what is in front, but it is important all the same, especially at night time, and when the roadway is narrow, and motorists should be careful to see that cluttering up the rear compartment does not Interfere with the rearward view. , At the week-end and at holiday time the small courtesy mentioned is quite frequently forgotten.- Don’t be guilty of it.

■ Disregard of following traffic is a sign of selfishness. Passengers packed in the rear seat frequently block the rearward view, which careful, thoughtful drivers should have. Passengers can assist drivers by giving information of overtaking traffic which desires to pass, and drivers appreciate help so given.