ENGINE TROUBLE ON THE HIGHWAY

Southland Times, Issue 23586, 13 August 1938, Page 18

ENGINE TROUBLE ON THE HIGHWAY

PRECAUTIONS TO LEAVE ROUTE CLEAR When forced to stop because of mechanical trouble, need for a tyre change, or for any other reason, the first thought of the motorist should be to get his car safely clear of the travelled portion of the roadway. The precaution is necessary not only for the safety of the motorist or mechanic who has to work on the car, but also for the protection of other users of the highway. Such roadside stops usually occur in an emergency which demands that the necessary work be done promptly in ordtr to proceed. Having seen to it that the car is as far off the roadway as practicable, the next step should be to see that the car itself is properly placed to prevent any unexpected movement. Even on a slight grade a stone or some other object should be placed in front or back of the wheels, as the case may require, instead of relying solely on the brakes. Care in parking by the side of the road is doubly a safety measure. It is a safeguard for the motorist who has stopped, and further is a protection for all other traffic. A car jutting into the roadway often creates a dangerous obstacle for passing cars. On some

highways it may seem that two lines of traffic cannot pass without increased risk of collisions. Keeping clear of the roadway becomes doubly important at night, with reduced visibility adding to the hazards.