Nearly one in five UK adults witness dangerous driving daily

Road users are risking serious life-changing injury or death every time they use the roads due to dangerous driving behaviours, research by law firm Slater and Gordon has revealed.

With nearly one in five UK adults witnessing dangerous driving multiple times a day, the recent research by the law firm shows the concerning scale of safety risks faced on our roads, every single week.

In fact, behaviours such as a speeding, distraction and aggression are seen on average nearly five times a week by the UK public.

The survey, conducted by Slater and Gordon, highlights the reality of dangerous driving faced by drivers when they get behind the wheel, passengers and pedestrians. 44% of respondents believe their local roads are very dangerous, while more than half report they have become more dangerous over the last 12 months.

Consequently, the research found that almost half (48%) of motorists now avoid certain roads due to safety concerns, and more than one in 10 feel nervous or anxious when travelling on the road.

In addition, 44% of motorists feel pressured into riskier driving behaviours, admitting that they exceeded the speed limit due to other drivers.

Worryingly, the findings also highlight that not only is dangerous driving witnessed regularly, but people also admitted to unsafe driving practices themselves. More than one in five drivers said they have previouslysped, whilst 16% said they have driven whilst emotionally distressed.

“These behaviours can be the difference between a life-changing injury, or even a life lost.” says Matthew Tomlinson, head of serious injury (North) at Slater and Gordon. “Every driver has a serious responsibility on the road to drive safely. Remember, this not only protects other road users and pedestrians, but also your passengers and your own safety.”

When asked what would improve safety, respondents also highlighted that the local and central government authorities also have a part to play, with an overwhelming majority of respondents saying improved road surfaces would make them feel safer (52%), followed by better lighting at 46% and lower speed limits at 31%.

Matthew comments “After the publishing of the road safety strategy earlier this year, we will witness a new reform that emphasises on tougher enforcements and driver responsibility.

“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.”