Motor-cyclists and Road Safety

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 204, 30 August 1938, Page 4

Motor-cyclists and Road Safety

LICENSE TESTS INADEQUATE? 4 ‘ Since tho meeting of the Road Safety Council, the New Zealand AutoCycle Union has had a busy time in the North Island, and the combined Canterbury Road Safety Council has accomplished wonderful work in tho South Island," states the report of the New Zealand Auto-Cycle Union to be presented at to-day’s meeting of tho council. “In tho North Island, the president (Mr. K. H. Fowler) and secretary have attended meetings of the Rangitikei Motor Club, Manawatu-Orion Motor Club, Pahiatua and Masterton Clubs (combined), and Wanganui Motor-Cycle Club. Tho attendances havo been exceptionally good and committees have been formed and patrols appointed. “The New Zealand Auto-Cycle Union is of opinion that in some districts tests for motor-cyclo licenses are inadequate. It recommends tho clubs in theso centres to make representations to tho local authorities for the tightening-up of the test. “The union feels that the tests cannot, in themselves, select or ensure that riders (and drivers) shall be careful, courteous, and accident-free. The rider undergoing the test is “on his best behaviour" during the duration of tho test, and in any case, no test has yet been devised which will ascertain in advance what a rider’s (or driver’s) reaction will be under all circumstances. The union feels that some form of education of the new rider (and driver) is absolutely essential, and that this education might well be provided by a course of six to eight interesting lectures, assisted wuth films and other material, during tho learner’s early experience. With the assistance of the Department, the union is arranging through sub-committees appointed in every centre, for the provision of tho lectures in correct technique, road sense and road courtesy. “The union feels that this scheme should be worked in conjunction with a scheme for the provision of learners’ plates.

“Motor-cycle honorary patrols have been rendering valuable service for several months in Christchurch and for lesser periods in the Auckland province, in the Manawatu, and in a number of other districts. The system is being gradually extended throughout the Dominion. ’ ’