From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
Letter discussing the dangers of skidding, tyre conditions, and the potential causes of a fatal accident.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 181\M10\ img056 | |
| Date | 11th April 1928 guessed | |
| contd :- -2- properties even if not very silent" - quoting my own experience of the dangers of skidding we were experiencing on the local roads here which they covered in dry weather with loam which becomes very slippery when wet. Also tyres for fast running must not be used after the rubber studs are worn off or become smooth - this goes without saying. I have not definitely heard what parts of the car struck the tree, which probably was one of the continuous lines of trees which are so frequently found at the sides of the French roads and which is a source of great danger in case of passing etc., but if it were the back part of the car, naturally, it is some evidence of a rear wheel skid - i.e. neither front wheel skid or steering gear. Any type of skid would make a driver think his steering gear had become detached. The proximity of the trees might prevent a back wheel skid from being corrected. At high speeds, the tyres may run up on the layer of water (which appears like oil) and the adhesion becomes almost nil, the powerful engine causing the tyres to slip, and control of driection is lost, generally this gives some warning (termed by drivers - 'steering going light) and considerable reduction in speed is necessary - this Winter within 3 miles from here we have had to reduce to 5 m.p.h. (wet loam on roads). Naturally you all, and especially myself, very much regret the unfortunate accident which has cost the life of a worthy man, but we have some satisfaction that it is not due to carelessness on our part or the want of providing the very best we know regardless of trouble and cost both in skillful workers and materials. R.{Sir Henry Royce} | ||