TRAM ACCIDENT

New Zealand Times, Volume XLIV, Issue 10282, 17 May 1919, Page 7

TRAM ACCIDENT

THE CHRISTCHURCH SMASH

EVIDENCE AT DEPARTMENTAL INQUIRY.

, Press' Association. CHRISTCHURCH, May 10.

Evidence submitted at the departmental inquiry into xlio tramway accident went to snow that while the loading was heavy on the car in question, it was nothing beyond what had been carried on the same class of car in the past. The cause of the trailer leaving the rails after the cir and the first trailer had passed over the points is still inexplicable, in view of the fact that tlie tram was running on what is known as the '‘straight.” Careful examination has shown the points at the Heathcote loop to be in first-class condition. Tho cars and their equipment .also have been proved to have been all right. In_ connection with the accident, two inquiries may bo held, one by the Public Works Department and tho other by the Tramway Board. Both will bo closed to tlie. I’ross. A large number of claims for compensation is expected. The Tramway Board has no fund to meet such claims, and, if any are paid, payment will come out of the general nccount.

Of ilho injured, Mrs Matthews’s baby girl is in a very critical condition, and Mrs Needham’s baby girl is also a serious case. Samuel Bruuton, aged -17 who is suffering from n fractured skull, is very low. The others aro progressing satisfactorily.