Nearly half of smokers 'will ignore new road rules'

Posted :16-10-2007

Some 45 per cent of motorists who smoke will ignore new regulations set in place in the newly-revised Highway Code, a leading car insurance provider has announced.

Research carried out by esure has suggested that lapses in concentration, 'near misses' and accidents have happened to more than three million UK drivers due to smoking distractions in their vehicle.

Mike Pickard, head of risk and underwriting at esure, stated that the firm's study reveals a number of behaviours that may have dangerous consequences, as well as contravening the new rulings put in place in the handbook.

"We advise drivers to always pay the road their full attention. Any activities that distract or cause a driver to lose concentration or take their hands off the wheel should be avoided," he said.

The new Highway Code states that smoking behind the wheel may be an action deemed by police to impair proper control of a car.

Consumers can purchase the Highway Code online or in print form, a knowledge of which may result in an increased awareness of road safety and possibly reducing the need to make a car insurance claim.


© Adfero Ltd

The views expressed within the article are entirely those of Adfero Ltd and are not those of BDML Connect Ltd