SAFETY ON THE ROADS

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 79, Issue 201, 26 August 1936, Page 3

SAFETY ON THE ROADS

FAILURE TO GIVE SIGNALS GROWING PRACTICE AMONG MOTORISTS ‘'The other day the Minister for transport in dealing with road dangers mentioned particularly the growing pratice among motorists, epecially in parked cars, of failing to give hand signals, and the practice of unnecessary passing of other vehicles on the roads,” says the latest safety first message of the Automobile Association Canterbury, Inc. ‘‘Unfortunately, the Minister’s observations are only too true. There is a tendency among drivers of cars parked or halted by the roadside to neglect to give any form of warning either by hand, horn, or mechanical direction indicator to passing or overtaking traffic. Rather there is a tendency to drive straight out into the stream of traffic or to edge out slowly, thus placing unfairly the responsibility on the overtaking or passing vehicle driver. In the daytime, of course, even if drivers are alert, as they should be, the risk of accident is great enough, but after nightfall, particularly if it is raining and the windscreen is obscured by raindrops, the chance of accident is stronger. “No driver should think of emerging from a parking or halting place until the way is absolutely clear, nor until proper hand signals are given as a warning. And the giving of signals is no excuse for any sudden manoeuvre likeiy to prejudice the safety of overtaking or passing traffic. “The Minister’s reference to unnecessary pasing of other vehicles is timely, also. Far too many motorists travelling at a considerable speed seem to think it the correct thing to be in front of everything on the road. That spirit is likely to lead to trouble, as the racing idea is easily engendered. “In the towns and cities many drivers take dangerous chances in passing other traffic. This risk-taking may save only a few minutes which are promptly lost at the first stop through traffic lights or a halted tram. “Motorists should always travel at a safe speed, and possess enough poise or driving judgement to let the other fellow be first if he wants to. Hand signals and a safe speed at all times are imperative to safety on the road.” A FEW HINTS TO BACK SEAT “DRIVERS.” 1. The driver knows what he is doing and is quite sane and sober. 2. He is very pleased with life and considers that his presence on this earth is quite as essential as yours—in fact, more so. 3. Admire the scenery and leave the driver to study the road. 4. The brakes are correctly adjusted and in perfect order; there is oil in the engine and enough petrol in the. tank; the water level has been checked, the horn works, and the spare wheel is blown up to correct nressure. 5. If the driver requires your advice he will ask for it. 6. He is probably as conversant with this road as you, and fully aware of the dangerous points without needing a reminder from you. —Standard Car Review.