Anxious Brits raise car insurance costs

Posted :24-11-2005

Millions of anxious motorists in the UK refuse to use the nation's motorways or busy roads, according to a new study.

The RAC Foundation has claimed "Driving Anxiety Disorder" prevents millions of Britons across the country making effective use of Britain's roads, and is putting themselves and others at risk.

A lack of confidence behind the wheel can lead to more accidents and minor collisions, as motorists drive less and therefore lack experience and self-assuredness in their vehicles.

This in turn can lead to higher car insurance costs, as many drivers can lose their no claims bonus in a minor accident.

The RAC Foundation's survey found that young females and elderly drivers suffer the most from anxiety on the road, whereas professional males aged between 28 and 55 are the least likely to.

Shelia Rainger, spokeswoman for the RAC Foundation said: "It's easy to believe that every other road user is a confident, capable driver, but it's simply not the case.

"In fact, one in every three drivers we surveyed admitted that they felt anxious and stressed about driving on motorways."

The foundation suggests several tips for nervous drivers, including leaving lots of time for the journey, meaning less pressure to get somewhere quickly; breathing deeply when feeling anxious in the car; and taking an advanced training course to improve skills and confidence.

An advanced driving course would also lower the cost of car insurance, saving money as well as cutting stress.


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