Female drivers "more studious" than males

Posted :16-08-2007

A survey of driving instructors has found a number of differences in the attitudes of males and females learning to drive.

The research conducted by BSM and the RAC, which may be of interest to women's car insurance customers, revealed that over two-thirds of instructors observed female learners taking a "more studious" approach to their lessons.

And although 61 per cent said they think males feel more pressured to rush ahead with their test, 29 per cent believed men pass quicker than women.

In addition, the report saw 79 per cent of instructors admit that parents who help their children to learn driving skills pass on bad habits, such as not checking mirrors properly, speeding and crossing hands while steering.

These, it was said, contribute to unsafe motoring practices and can lead to penalty points - something which is likely to increase car insurance premiums.

While BSM's managing director Mike Hutter explained that a mix of formal lessons and parental help can improve skills, he warned of the importance to "learn to drive for life" instead of just to pass the test.

"This is clearly more challenging for those young people who are facing increased pressure to pass or those that are being taught bad habits by their parents," he added.

In related news, it was recently announced that the number of questions on the driving theory test is to increase.


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