MOTORISTS’ PROBLEMS

Evening Star, Issue 24282, 25 August 1942, Page 4

MOTORISTS’ PROBLEMS

AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION MEETING Tlio liability in connection with motor accidents’involving Army vehicles was again the subject of discussion at the monthly meeting of the Automobile Association (Otago) last night, when the chairman (Mr I*. W. Breen) stated he considered it was totally unfair that there should be one law for civilians and another for Army drivers. It simply meant that an ordinary civilian involved in an accident might be burdened with heavy financial commitments.

Mr G. W. Ferens drew attention to the heavy responsibilities placed upon a Stateemployed insurance assessor in having the final say in deciding such matters. When substantial suras w T cre involved, it seemed out of place for an assessing clerk to be given the power implied in the Government’s attitude. Mr J. L. Passmore said the results of a test case were awaited with interest. It was decided to again seek the further cooperation of the S.I.M.U. in the matter.

The S.I.M.U. had stated that the Attor-ney-General, replying to representations, intimated that consideration would be given to the question of limitation of time for bringing action. The Chairman explained that the latest information was that no extension of time in which to bring actions would bo permitted. Extension of time meant three months from the date of an accident, which the association considered unreasonable. NIGHT PARKING.

Discussing the question of leaving unlighted vehicles parked on the street, it was stated that legal advice had been sought, and as a result members were informed that in the event of a vehicle, licensed or otherwise, being struck by a travelling car, the onus was on the latter to show that the parked vehicle was an obstruction. If that could not be proved, then the owner of the parked vehicle might claim for damages incurred. A letter from the City Council stated that a large number of motor vehicles had not been rolicensod this year, and many of these would be left standing in city streets. While unlicensed these cars were not covered by compulsory third party insurance. Complaints had been received from the Fire Brigade authorities of the danger caused by parked vehicles in a number of narrow suburban streets.

, The General Committee of the City Council fully appreciated the difficulties facing motorists, but was of the opinion that unlicensed vehicles should not bo permitted to remain on the streets for- s indefinite periods. The chief traffic inspector had been instructed to notify owners of such vehicles that legal proceedings would be taken if the vehicles were not removed from city streets immediately. Action had also been suggested in connection with licensed vehicles, but whore these were not in a dangerous position no action would be taken.

Mr Breen said that no disagreement could be expressed with the attitude of the council, as the chief inspector (Mr E. H. Barrett) could be expected to administer the scheme in a reasonable way.