MOTOR REGULATIONS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 25 October 1939, Page 7

MOTOR REGULATIONS

CARAVANS AND TRAILERS OBSERVATIONS BY TRAFFIC INSPECTOR. POINTS OWNERS SHOULD NOTE. The recent holiday weekend has given an indication of traffic which may be anticipated on the roads during the Christmas holidays, stated Mr W. G. Milne, traffic inspector of the Transport Department, to a -TimesAge” representative. Vehicles drawing caravans and trailers have been much in evidence, but few of the drivers of cars drawing these vehicles by night appear to be conversant with the amendment to the traffic regulations which came into force on September 1. 1939. and which lequires that every vehicle drawing a trailer (which includes caravans) during the hours of darkness, must display to the front and as high as possible a blue light of at least 3 square inches. Very few vehicles so equipped were observed during the i ecent weekend and action is being taken against the drivers of vehicles who fail to comply with the regulation in future.

The blue marker lights fitted to many caravans do not comply with this regulation, which requires that the blue light shall be displayed on the car which is drawing the trailer. Many operators, said Mr Milne, are also unaware that trailers and caravans are motor vehicles within the meaning of the regulations and as such require to carry a current warrant of fitness.

It is also observed that many cars drawing trailers and caravans, while doing so have not the use of their interior-fitted real- view mirror. Where the view is obstructed through the height of the towed vehicle it is essential that an outside fitted mirror be attached to enable overtaking traffic to be observed.

In conclusion, Mr Milne stated that the white lines painted on the roads were not for ornament, and vehicles are expected to keep to the left of them at all times.