Share The Blame
Page 28
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ONCE again the Licensing Authorities, in their annual reports, have complained of the standard of maintenance of goods vehicles and particularly of the lighter types. Routine servicing, greasing and adjustments, they say, are often neglected, as the result of which defects develop. The principal faults necessitating the issue of prohibition notices relate to bodywork and fittings, steeling, brakes and suspension, in that order. Many C-licensees are found not to appreciate that defects in bodywork can cause accidents.
This state of affairs is regrettable, but is understandable. The small retailer rarely has much mechanical knowledge of vehicles and, in any event, he is fully occupied in his own business. It is often difficult for him to spare his van for maintenance during the day, and the high cost of repairs and service further discourages that frequent and regular attention which is essential to efficient operation. The standard of driving of light vans is also lamentably low.
Not all the blame can, however, be fairly placed on the operator. Manufacturers must share some of the responsibility for the poor condition attributed by the Licensing Authorities to many small vans.
They still adhere too closely to private-car practice in the design and production of light delivery vans, although much heavier construction is obviously necessary. They continue to fit private-car engines, which are far too fast for the class of vehicle and encourage heedless drivers to drive at excessive speeds in all gears.
. The results of this kind of treatment are seen not only in rapid engine wear, but in general deterioration throughout the vehicle. Many of the body defects of which the Licensing Authorities complain can undoubtedly be traced to vibration caused by incontinent driving.
Vehicle examiners are trying to educate small operators in the necessity of adequate maintenance Their efforts are, however, unlikely to be full3 rewarded until manufacturers produce light vehicles that are designed specifically for the arduous wort of local delivery, are easy to service and canno readily be overdriven.