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Hokitika Guardian, 13 April 1928, Page 2

An important matter affecting the public safety was mentioned at the County Council meeting on Tuesday, when Mr Searle enquired regarding the limit of speed of motor traffic on the public roads. A reference to the regulations just issued by the Government, showed that excessive speeds are prohibited. The maximum limit is 35 miles an hour, reduced to 25 miles per hour for boroughs. Ihese speeds are further restricted when passing schools

approaching intersections of roads or streets, etc. The position is now so well defined under the motor regulations that drivers shouid make themselves familiar with the, speed limits, as indeed other phases of the traffic regulations This knowledge now is essential for applicants foi new drivers’ licenses, while offenders (licensed drivers! are liable to have their licenses suspended or even cancelled ir they break the regulations. It is permissible •for local bodies to create speed limits for their districts under special by-law, but the limits of speed are governed iu the maximum by the main regulations. In regard to the regulations generally, a good deal of liability is tlnown nil the local! bodies in charge of roads and streets, to see that various matters under the regulations are properly attended to. In particular, road signs must be properly maintained. Tt is very necessary in me interests of tin* puli lie to see the regulations observed. The numerous accidents recorded of late is a reminder that many people are remiss and unmindful of the publii. safe, tv. In the interests of all concerned, it would lie well to tighten up the con. troi of public traffic, “safety first” being the slogan. The question of speed generally is also a matter of some importance to the local bodies. The fast moving vehicles do increased dam. age to the roads once they travel at over a certain limit. The heavier the load the greater the restriction on the speed in the case of heavy traffic lorries. But this safeguard is often ignored, and the cost is charged up against the ratepayers who have to foot the bill for the maintenance and upkeep of the mails. The average driver hardly gives that aspect of the ease a second thought, but if lie is mindful of his liability in I lie matter, he will lie more careful in the future, as he is liable to be lined at any time when caught exceeding the speed limit. Probably it the local bodies tool, hoiuo concerted action in the matter the speed limits would lie less abused, in which case it would he safer for the public, and there would be loss liability to general road damage by the last moving vehicles exceeding the limit of pace.