Your views: Winter 2025
Our readers share their thoughts on LED headlights, road safety and more.
Style versus safety
After reading recent discussions on LED headlights and modern car visibility, I’ve started to question whether car designers are prioritising style over safety. Some newer vehicles seem to have tiny or dim rear indicators and brake lights. Following a late-model European car in the rain recently really brought this home. Are there no minimum standards for size or brightness anymore?
Stephen Boyle
The true cost
As we head into another Tassie winter with its fog, rain, ice and long, dark nights, I’ve been thinking about the cost of keeping our cars safe versus the cost of not doing so.
How much does it cost to keep your tyres and brakes in good condition? And what’s the cost if you don’t? How much to keep all your lights working and correctly adjusted? What’s the cost of a service or a third-party insurance policy compared to the cost of an accident?
Car ownership is a responsibility. A wet road, worn tyres or a faulty headlight can be all it takes for a serious and expensive incident. Yes, budgets are tight, but cutting corners on roadworthiness could cost a lot more than you think, not just for you, but for everyone you share the road with.
Jennifer Dare
Above the rules
Many drivers along the Tasman Highway between Launceston and St Helens seem to think double white lines don’t apply to them. Whether it’s cutting corners or overtaking in winding areas – especially through The Sideling and the mountainous stretches east of Scottsdale – it happens way too often. Perhaps some unmarked police cars would be put to good use in these areas?
Ian Robbins
Hi-vis please
With winter approaching and low visibility during sunset and rainy days, I believe it’s time we made high-visibility shirts or jackets compulsory for cyclists. It’s a simple step that could save lives in the long run.
Harvey Bird
Zip through faster
Last Friday I was leaving Hobart via the Bridgewater Bridge. There was a long queue in the right-hand lane, while the left lane was largely empty. For the first time, I wondered, why can’t drivers just use both lanes and merge in an orderly zip fashion when they come together? Is there any official guidance on this?
Joanna de Burgh
