“DONT’S” & “MUSTS”

Wairarapa Times-Age, 17 November 1939, Page 8

“DONT’S” & “MUSTS”

DANGER OF RIDING HANDS-OFF. PROVISION OF THE REGULATIONS. "It is observed that the practice of riding 'hands-off' appears io be on the increase and to those who indulge in this mode of riding a word in season may not come amiss,” said Mr W. G. Milne, Transport Department inspec-

tor, in an interview. "Action has been taken in various parts of the Dominion recently in connection with this practice and fines up to £1 have been imposed,” said Mr Milne. "Amongst children it is a favourite way of 'show-ing-off' but unfortunately the practice is not confined to juveniles, and many who should know better may be seen at it, thereby setting a bad example to the younger generation. "Hanging on behind other vehicles and being towed is also indulged ,jn by some. The danger of such practices

should not require to be stressed and those who indulge in it need be under no misapprehension as to what action is likely to be taken. It does not appear to be generally understood that under the Traffic Regulations, 193 G, Part 111 of which relates exclusively to bicycles, these machines are brought within the scope of the regulations and riders must comply with the rules laid down.” For the information of those who have not studied these regulations, the following are the chief provisions therein: —

Equipment. Lights: During the hours of darkness no person shall ride a bicycle on any road or. street, unless it is equipped with a lamp showing a white light to the front of sufficient brilliance as to enable it to be seen at a distance of 100 yards. (A torch or lamp carried in the hand does not comply with this

section); also a lamp showing towards the rear, a red light capable of being seen at a distance of 100 yards, or a red reflector of an approved type so fitted that it reflects the light from the lamps of overtaking vehicles (a reflector does not comply with this section unless it reflects the light from overtaking lamps and all cyclists would be well advised to ensure that their reflectors are of an approved type and are properly fitted); also at least 12 square inches of the rear mudguard or other portion of the machine visible from the rear must be painted white and maintained in that condition. Brake: No person shall operate a bicycle unless it is equipped with an efficient brake operating on the rear

wheel. (A brake operating owly on the front wheel is not sufficient). Bell: No person shall operate a bicycle unless it is equipped with a bell as a warning device. Don't for Cyclists. Don’t ride in a negligent or careless manner (hands-off and such like), don’t cut corners, don't overtake on corners or bends unless there is 50 yards clear view ahead, don’t ride more than two abreast, don't ride on the footpath, don't hang on and be towed by any other vehicle. Musts for Cyclists. Keep as close as practicable to the left of the road; keep to the left of lines marked on corners, bends, etc.; overtake other- vehicles (except trams) on their right side; overtake trams on their left side and only while moving; comply with instructions at controlled intersections; signal intention before making a right hand turn.