Drivers Concerned By Lack of Goodwill
Motorists say goodwill towards other road users has been in short supply over the festive period.
A study by Halfords Autocentres into how winter affects motorists found that drivers are concerned about the levels of impatient, aggressive and inconsiderate driving – which they say increases at this time of year.
Rory Carlin from Halfords Autocentres said: “From our survey drivers are noticing a general lack of courteous driving at this time of the year.
“It seems that the festivities take their toll on the nation’s road manners and tempers flare leading to less kindness and unselfish behaviour from some motorists.”
Almost a quarter of motorists (23%) who took part in the research said they felt that unfriendly, bad tempered behaviour - such as failing to allow drivers out at junctions, lane hogging and not indicating – is a major issue during the winter months.
One in five motorists (20%) also felt that there was a rise in aggressive and impatient driving – such as tailgating, speeding and using car horns or lights to intimidate other road users.
Rory Carlin added: “We know that winter road conditions are a cause for concern amongst motorists but they also feel that ill-mannered and aggressive behaviour by other drivers is making things worse. As 2014 starts a good resolution would be for all drivers to be more considerate.”
Wet, dark and slippery conditions mean more than a third of motorists are anxious or genuinely frightened about driving at this time of year – so to arm motorists with information on how to stay safe Halfords Autocentres has worked with former SAS Sergeant Major and survival expert John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman to create a handy Winter Survival Guide.
The Winter Survival Guide for motorists provides advice on everything from how to avoid a skid and remaining calm in traffic to administering first aid.
To read the Winter Survival Guide or download a free copy visit: visit: http://www.halfordsautocentres.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ACArticleDisplay?langId=-1&storeId=11602&catalogId=19255&categoryId=277810&articleId=1021921. To watch the first film in the accompanying Halfords Autocentre Survival Series visit: http://www.youtube.com/user/Halfordsautocentre .
ENDS
Media contact:
Stuart Humphreys, Automotive PR Manager
T: 01527 513410, M: 07738 751930
E: stuart.humphreys@halfords.co.uk
Notes to Editors
Drivers behaving badly survey: Conducted among 2000 UK drivers.
Halfords Autocentres is a leading independent MOT, car service, repair and tyre garage network. We employ highly trained ATA accredited technicians and use the latest in vehicle diagnostic equipment in over 295 sites – which is expanding monthly - to deliver dealership quality work at affordable prices.
Being independent experts means that we are able to service, repair and maintain any make or model of car in line with the manufacturer’s standards, whilst offering a local price match promise and peace of mind in the form of a minimum guarantee of 12 months or 12,000 miles on work carried out. (See website for terms and conditions)
The Halfords Autocentres name may be a recent addition to the Halfords Group, but our heritage spans more than three decades and we serve over 750,000 customers every year - with over 8 out of 10 of them being happy to recommend us to their friends.
