The UK’s Most Hated Driving Habits
A new survey courtesy of KwikFit has revealed some of the UKs biggest pet peeves when it comes to driving and –perhaps unsurprisingly – the trends have changed since the last survey was conducted in 2010.
Yes, climbing in above tailgating in the nation’s list of hated driving habits is using a mobile phone while driving – talking or texting. A huge 47% of people surveyed named this as the sight that most irritates them when on the road.
It’s easy to understand why this would give other passengers road-rage: not only is it illegal, it’s a mindless act that is asking for trouble.
“These driving habits aren’t just annoying, they are dangerous and some of them are against the law,” explains Kwik Fit director of communications Roger Griggs. “You’re four times more likely to have an accident if you use a mobile while driving, in addition to the frustration it causes for fellow motorists.”
Tailgating is still considered one of the UK’s most annoying driving habits with 42% of those surveyed stating it as their biggest on-road annoyance. 35% said that failure to indicate annoyed them the most, 30% went with dangerous overtaking and jumping the lights was at the lower end of the scale with only 10% stating it as the bad habit that drives them up the wall.
Roger Griggs went on to say that “With on-the-spot penalties for motorists who hog the middle lane, tailgate or cut up other vehicles being introduced last year, it highlights just how serious these anti-social driving behaviours are being taken.”
So while some road dangers can’t be helped, we at New Look Loans believe that the one at the top is the one that is also the most avoidable. Have your phone in the car? Here’s some of our tips for not only keeping within the law, but for avoiding putting yourselves and others in serious danger:
Don’t talk on the phone and drive;
Using your mobile phone while driving or riding a motorcycle is illegal – and the rules apply when stopped at traffic lights or queuing in heavy traffic. If you are caught you will receive three points on your driving license and a cash fine, but more importantly you could be putting yourself, other drivers and pedestrians in serious danger. If you are expecting a very important call that can’t wait, pull over in a safe place before answering your call. Some hands-free devices can be used, but if you are seen to be a distracted driver you may still be stopped and penalised.
Don’t text and drive;
The temptation of a bleeping phone is a very strong one, but even reading a text while driving is more than enough for you to lose control of your vehicle or miss out on potential hazards. Leave your phone out of sight or on silent mode while you drive. If you are waiting on an important message that really can’t wait, pull your car over at the next safe, available place to read your message. If the temptation to read your texts while driving is too strong, we suggest you turn your phone off when you drive.
Look out for the signs;
As well as avoiding the temptation to use a mobile device while driving, you must be vigilant when it comes to spotting the signs of a fellow driver who may be distracted. Signs will be similar to that of an intoxicated driver – sudden stopping, weaving or swaying in and out of traffic and of course the tell-tail sign of a driver reading a text, the head nodding down to look at their device. Be aware of these distracted drivers and keep your distance if you think you may not have their full attention.
If they look as though they may be a danger to you, themselves, pedestrians or property you should pull over and report the driver. Whatever you do, don’t react in an aggressive manner towards the driver as this could end in a much more serious situation.