A recent extensive survey conducted by The AA has uncovered notable worries about driver conduct and road safety in Ireland. Polling more than 2,600 Irish drivers, the survey offers insight into the most concerning driving behaviours, common road etiquette problems, and the daily frustrations that influence driving experiences.
These results emphasize the importance of reinforcing responsible driving practices and compliance with traffic regulations. Numerous drivers admit to engaging in risky behaviours themselves while also expressing frustration with the behaviour of others.
Dangerous Driving Behaviours
It comes as no surprise that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs ranked as the most hazardous driving behaviour, with 97% of respondents pinpointing it as the top road peril. Following closely behind, 96% of drivers recognized using a mobile phone while driving as equally dangerous, while 95% admitted that speeding poses a significant risk. Motorists also raised concerns about running red lights, tailgating, weaving through traffic, and driving without headlights. These findings indicate a widespread awareness of major road dangers among drivers but also reveal a concerning persistence of these risky behaviours.
Frustrations on the Road
Among driving frustrations, aggressive driving stood out as the most significant source of annoyance, with 90% of participants highlighting it as their primary grievance. In a close second, 84% of drivers expressed frustration over inadequate indicator usage by other road users. Additionally, a large majority of respondents voiced concerns about lane misuse, especially at roundabouts, solidifying it as one of the most commonly mentioned irritations on roads in Ireland.
Compliance with Speed Limits
The survey uncovered varied responses regarding adherence to speed limits. While 56% of participants reported always following speed regulations, 42% indicated they do so most of the time. However, a worrying minority acknowledged occasionally, rarely, or never obeying speed limits, underscoring a notable risk to road safety.
Positive Trends in Mobile Phone Use
Conversely, the survey offered positive findings regarding mobile phone usage while driving. A significant 82% of participants stated that they never use their phones while operating a vehicle, indicating a positive influence from safety campaigns spearheaded by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) on driver conduct.
Parking Etiquette Concerns
The survey highlighted parking etiquette as a notable area of concern, with almost 93% of drivers confirming they have never improperly utilized designated parking spots, including those allocated for parents with children, disabled drivers, or loading bays. Interestingly, one-third of surveyed motorists expressed their readiness to intervene if they encountered inappropriate parking conduct, indicating a proactive approach among some drivers in addressing such matters.
The AA’s survey emphasizes the continual requirement for heightened driver consciousness and accountability on Irish roadways. Despite positive strides, notably in reducing mobile phone usage, the prevalence of aggressive driving, indicator misuse, and failure to adhere to speed limits indicates the need for additional measures to advance road safety and courteous driving practices nationwide.
Customer Survey – Driving Behaviours and Road Etiquette Survey Sept 2024 (002)
