From potholes to dangerous driving, what measures would make drivers feel safer?

With more than half of drivers believing UK roads are becoming more dangerous, the Road Safety Strategy released earlier this year comes at a critical point to address national driving issues.

It is hoped that following the strategy, new road safety measures will be introduced including tougher enforcements and stricter driving tests for learner drivers, as well as encouraging drivers to be more responsible on the roads.

A recent survey by Slater and Gordon revealed the issues that cause most concern around road safety for drivers behind the wheel, passengers and pedestrians, from poor infrastructure to poor driver behaviour.

With 55% of Brits believing UK roads have become more dangerous, almost half (48%) of motorists now avoid certain roads due to concerns for their welfare. In addition, nearly one in five UK adults witness dangerous driving multiple times a day and, as a result, more than one in 10 feel nervous when driving, due to poor road conditions and driver behaviour.

In addition, 44% of motorists feel pressured into riskier driving behaviours, admitting that they exceed the speed limit due to other drivers. Despite 50% of respondents believing speeding contributes to most road accidents, more than one in five drivers admit they have previously sped, highlighting a concern that dangerous driving is becoming normalised behaviour.

Concern was also shared by those looking at alternative methods of travel, with 42% of Brits saying they would turn to cycling or walking more if the roads in their area were safe.

However, drivers aren’t just asking for behaviour improvements. 65% of respondents reported that poor road conditions, such as potholes or road works, made them feel unsafe. A further 50% changed their driving habits due to potholes.

Recent news shared by The Asphalt Industry Alliance (AIA) revealed that currently, estimated costs for repairing potholes across England and Wales would reach over £18 billion. However, the survey highlights that the majority of Brits would ultimately feel much safer if road surfaces were improved (52%). Other improvements the public would like to see for road safety included better lighting at 46% and lower speed limits at 31%.

Matthew Tomlinson, head of serious injury (North) at Slater and Gordon comments,

“While improvements to road conditions and lighting can help with people feeling safer, the data shows a greater issue where too many motorists are complacent about risk-taking. We are witnessing a culture where dangerous behaviour is normalised, or people feel pressured by others on the road.”

“Stronger enforcements are required to action necessary change and shift driver behaviour. Drivers must recognise that every decision they make carries serious consequences.”