LEVEL CROSSINGS.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXVII, Issue 4934, 3 February 1926, Page 4

LEVEL CROSSINGS.

e SHOULD MOTORISTS STOP? A MAGISTRATE’S- VIEW. “This question of, level crossings is a difficult one, and the provisions in the Act, no doubt, are designed for public safety. It seems) impracticable, however, for every motorist to stop at the crossing. In many circumstances., I think that might cause more danger than it prevents.” The above opinion w'as expressed by Mr E. Page, S.M., in the ' Magistrate’s Court at Wellington last week, when Louis Brough, Hugh McKenne.il, and Percy Edward Staple each admitted failing to stop their cars when approaching the railway line at the point where it crosses the Hutt Road near Petone.

“Very few motorists observe the Regulation,” said Mr J. F. Stevenson, who appeared for defendants. “In my •opinion it would be an absurd thing to expect them to do so. There is a high tin fence which obstructs the view until the ti'ain is within a few yards of the crossing, and if every motorist were to slow down when approaching the crossing, get but of the car, look for a train", and then get back in it again, it mignt be more dangerous than if he were to go straight ahead, because by that time a train might be upon, him.” Continuing, counsel stated that the automobile authorities had been agitating for some time for automatic signals for the crossing, and these sjignals had now been installed. “It does' seem impracticable” remarked the Magistrate, “but nevertheless it is an offence and the law must be complied with.” Each defendant w,as convicted and fined £3.