UK drivers looking for leeway on the roads

A recent study conducted by German insurance company Allianz has revealed a number of insights into UK driver attitudes. The survey encouraged motorists to reflect on attitudes and beliefs around various driving behaviours – some legal, some illegal.

One of the more surprising results was that one third of people believe drivers in 20mph zones should only be prosecuted if driving 10mph over the speed limit or more. In other words, a significant number of drivers think either more leeway should be given or the 20mph limit is unnecessary.

The counter argument to this is that the 20mph speed limits imposed near schools and hospitals are of vital importance in protecting vulnerable pedestrians, such as children and the disabled, from speeding cars.

At the opposite end of the spectrum, a sizeable 65% of people believe motorways are most likely to induce speeding.

The research did not stop there: 74% of motorists said they believed it was okay to go over all speed limits by 5mph. Whether this means 74% of motorists act on these beliefs is unclear, however.

Finally 59% of drivers get frustrated with other motorists who stick to the speed limit. This is despite the fact many drivers have been involved in accidents as a result of speeding.

Jon Dye of Allianz Insurance warned that these attitudes may have dangerous implications:

‘With 1 in 4 drivers saying they had been personally involved in an accident which involved excessive speed, motorists can help significantly reduce the number of accidents on Britain’s roads by driving within the speed limit.’

Drivers offered a number of explanations for speeding, the top three being the sight of an empty road in front of them; a gradual increase in speed going unnoticed; and being late.

The study also found 10% of drivers aged 18-24 have been prosecuted for speeding at least twice.

Despite these prosecutions, UK drivers still maintain speed limits are a good thing. A significant 35% encourage legislation to be passed making compulsory speed awareness courses mandatory, subject to standard penalties.
In more extreme cases of speeding, where a driver goes significantly over the limit, the majority find this inexcusable, and support tougher penalties. Furthermore, one third of motorists think there should be a move to fit new car models with speed limiters to prevent the problem altogether.

Been involved in a road accident in the last three years? Call Winns today on 0800 988 6288.

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