RAMSHACKLE MOTORS

Evening Star, Issue 22143, 25 September 1935, Page 16

RAMSHACKLE MOTORS

PERiDDIGAL TESTING SCHEME ELABORATED BY MR A. E. ANSELL An elaboi;ation > of the scheme .recently advanced in Parliament by Mr A. E. Ansell, M.P., for the periodica! testing ,of brakes, lights, and equipment of all road vehicles was given by the member for Chalmers at last night’s meeting of the Automobile Association (Otago), and from the reception given to his address it was clear that he had the support of tho members. Dealing with legislation, Mr E. J. Anderson had earlier stated that Mr Ansell had touched on one of the most important points when he had drawn attention in the House, to the many mechanically unsound vehicles on the road, and had urged that it was necessary in tho interests of public safety that a very rigid examination of vehicles should be made compulsory. The present spasmodic inspection of brakes did not meet the situation, and tho spasmodic inspection of cars did not remove those 44 old crocks ” which were bought at Christinas for £5 and let loose on the highways. If there wei’e insufficient inspectors to do the work; more should be appointed, as the questions involved were sufficiently important to warrant the expense. Mr Ansell explained that his scheme hud followed that adopted in some States in America. The States had instituted special plant for the testing of brakes, equipment, and lights. The plant proved tho efficiency or otherwise of the equipment. It was incumbent on motorists in at least two States to have their cars tested every six months. They were compelled to go to the building. If tho machines were not in order the owners were instructed to have the repairs made at a garage, and a further examination was made after the adjustments had been carried out. If tho test wore satisfactory a certificate was given. Experience in America had proved that this system had resulted in fatalities being reduced by 25 per cent. There was also the saving in'property, representing an enormous sum. He suggested that if New Zealand could reduce the road fatalities by 25 per cent, it would be doing something worth while for motordom and for the public. (Applause.) A further advantage of the 'scheme was that some of the cars now on roads would not be allowed to use the liighways. It was definitely a matter of public interest. If the scheme were adopted they would see few of the present ramshackle cars on tho road. He was certain that a very large percentage of the accidents, fatal and otherwise, could be avoided by insistence on proper brakes. Replying to Mr Anderson, Mr A. H. Allen, a member of the City Council, asked who was to foot tho bill if more traffic inspectors were appointed?