Drivers extend journeys to avoid motorways
25 August 2010 10:00:00
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| Many British drivers are nervous about driving on motorways. |
The AA's online Route Planner assisted with more than 5m journeys in which motorists specifically requested a motorway-free route last year.
Just 44% of 18 to 24-year-olds said they felt confident driving on motorways, compared to 65% of 55 to 64-year-olds.
According to the breakdown cover firm, nearly 20% of men and 40% of women avoid motorways altogether during their first year of driving, and 28% of female motorists still keep away from motorways after three years on the road.
Mark Peacock, head of driver development at AA Driving School, said that statistics show motorways to be safer than other roads, despite many drivers' fear of them.
"By steering clear of them drivers not only face a longer, slower journey, but are potentially putting themselves at greater risk on A-roads," Mr Peacock revealed.
He added: "Tailored motorway tuition with a fully-qualified instructor can help drivers build the skills and confidence to make our motorway network work for them."
A previous survey by the AA, published in 2007, found that 52% of motorists put themselves at risk by pulling on to the motorway hard shoulder for non-emergency reasons.
For instance, 14% of the 650 survey respondents said they would use the hard shoulder to take a toilet break, while 7% would pull over to get something out of their car boot.
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