RECKLESS MOTORISTS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 20706, 2 May 1929, Page 6

RECKLESS MOTORISTS

A MAGISTRATE’S STRICTURES. QUESTION OF ENDORSING LICENSES. (Per United Press Association;) HASTINGS, May 1. “I have in mind the endorsement of drivers’ licenses in cases dealing with negligent and dangerous driving and speeding,” stated the magistrate (Mr A. W. Mowlcm) at the court this morning, when he issued a warning to a . certain section of the motoring community. . “ I think the time has long since gone when the mere matter of a fine has had any effect,” continued his Worship! “ It would seem that some men do not think their licenses are of value or they would not jeopardise them as they do. 1 want to make it perfectly clear that 1 will, so far as 1 am able, protect everyone—pedestrians, motorists, and cyclists alike. I am of opinion that quite a number of motorists think that so long as they are in a car they can do what they like, and that they can make the cai travel along and be in the right. They can do no such thing. In future I am considering endorseraent—eveu cancellation —of licenses. I know it will be a hard job, but I hope to do away with the man who earns the unenviable reputation among his fellow-men of being a ‘ road hog.’ . You now know where the Bench stands in this matter.” ' AN INTOXICATED DRIVER. THIRTY DAYS IN GAOL. CHRISTCHURCH, May i. At the Rangiora Magistrate’s Court this morning, before Mr E. C. Lewey. S.M., Frank George Gibbs, a local contractor, who did not appeal, was charged with being in charge of a motor car on the J rain toad, Flaxton, whilst in a state of intoxication. The evidence showed that Gibbs was discovered asleep in the car with several bottles of liquor at 3.30 p.m. on Saturday. Mr Lewey said that the drunken motorist could not be tolerated. The defendant was sentenced to 30 days’ imprisonment, his driving license was cancelled, and he was prohibited from holding a license for two years. On a further charge of breaking his prohibition order he was convicted and ordered to pay costs.