The reimposition of a speed limit for private motor-cars on virtually all roads which are not in the open country and the establishment of driving tests for new drivers are the two main features of the Government╒s Road Traffic Bill, the text of which was issued last night.
The chief proposals in the bill may be summarised as follows:╤
SPEED LIMIT.╤ A limit of thirty miles an hour is imposed on private cars in built-up areas ╤that is, on roads where a system of street lighting is maintained at the expense of the rates. A ╥street lit╙ road may be deemed not a built-up area at the discretion of the local authority and the Minister.
Revised lower limits will continue for heavy goods vehicles.
TESTS FOR DRIVERS.╤ For new drivers driving tests are to be imposed, with a fee up to 10s. Drivers of heavy goods vehicles have to obtain an additional licence, with a suitable test for new applicants.
DISQUALIFICATION.╤ A person convicted of careless driving will be liable to disqualification for one month and on second conviction for three months. A Court may disqualify a convicted driver until he has passed a driving test.
PEDESTRIANS.╤ Pedestrian crossing-places may be proposed by local authorities, and there will be power to fine any pedestrian or driver breaking the regulations.
CYCLISTS.╤ Pedal-cyclists will be required to have a white painted patch on the rear mudguard and efficient reflectors.
HORNS AND HOOTERS.╤ The regulation of the use of horns and similar devices is proposed.
As for tests for drivers, new drivers are regarded as those who did not hold a driving licence before Sunday next. These will, when the bill is passed, have to pass a test of competence.
Certain amendments are made to the existing law on the liability of insurance companies in accident cases to pay damages to third parties. These provide that in certain cases the insurance company must pay even though there are grounds for voiding the policy.
