“UNSATISFACTORY”

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLIII, Issue 20892, 23 November 1937, Page 6

“UNSATISFACTORY”

USE OF PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS Although painted pedestrian crossings have been in use in Timaru streets for some time, neither motorists nor pedestrians are observing satisfactorily the rules in connection with them. “It is noticed that drivers of motor vehicles are not slowing down when approaching the crossings, and when a pedestrian is on the crossing he frequently has to stop to let the motorist proceed on account of the dangerous speed at which he is approaching,” said Traffic Inspector C. H. Newcome in a report presented to last night’s meeting of the Timaru Borough Council. “Pedestrians also stop to let the motorist proceed when the speed of the vehicle has been reduced; also they leave the crossing and walk diagonally across the street. This use of the crossing is very dangerous, and every endeavour is now being made to enforce the regulations. Action is being taken against offenders.” “I would like to know how the law stands in this,” said Cr. M. H. Richards. “People are crossing all over the place. We all do it, and we ought all to be punished." Cr. W. H. Hall explained that pedestrians could cross the road at right angles at any point they liked, but when not using the crossings had to give the right-of-way to traffic. Jaywalkers, however, were being prosecuted. “I’ve seen you do it yourself many times,” said Cr. Richards. “Now, Cr. Richards, you know it was I who pulled you up for doing it,” retorted Cr. Hall. The Mayor (Mr P. C. Vinnell) said he had frequently seen pedestrians start to cross but when cars did not slow down they stopped. They had the right-of-way but would not take the risk of being knocked down, naturally. Cr. Hall said the inspectors were taking steps to see that the regualtions were enforced.