TESTS FOR MOTOR-DRIVERS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 19959, 30 May 1928, Page 14

TESTS FOR MOTOR-DRIVERS.

Sir,—"Safely First's" suggestions that applicants for motor-driver's licences should he required to pass a nerve test well merits the attention -it has aroused. The tests could not, however, be carried out by anyone unprovided with equipment. A special plant by which the emergencies of motor driving may be simulated and the would-be motor driver confronted with them, is required. My company has installed such a plant in Auckland for its own use, and the purpose of this letter is to offer the use of it to the authorities and employers of motor drivers. The tests made with it and the plant itself wero developed by Dr. Snow, professor of psychology at the Northwestern University of "U.S.A. The system includes tests for presence of mind, ability to act quickly in face of sudden traffic emergencies, ability to judge distances and the speed of moving objects, and a special test which shows the degree of carefulness or recklessness with which the subject would negotiate congested traffic. Experience has shown these tests to be consistently accurate and reliable. To describe the plant and its operation in detail would require more space than the limits of this letter can give. However, I would be willing to demonstrate the plant to the traffic authorities or to any employers of motor drivers interested. E. J. Galt, Manager. Black and White Cab Company.