Top 5 Worst Driving Habits That Cost You Time and Money
Owning a car in the UK comes with plenty of expenses – insurance, fuel, maintenance – but did you know that your driving habits might be secretly adding even more strain on your wallet?
Many drivers unknowingly adopt bad habits behind the wheel that not only waste time but also lead to unnecessary costs. A recent study by TheFuelCardCompany, which surveyed 1,000 UK motorists, revealed some eye-opening insights into the top five worst driving habits that could be eating away at your finances without you even realising it.
From burning excess fuel to incurring hefty fines, these bad driving behaviours could be quietly draining your bank account and racking up stress on the road. Keep reading as we break down these costly habits and offer simple tips to help you avoid them!
Habit #1: Going Too Fast (64%)
Beyond the obvious dangers of exceeding the speed limit, like devastating accidents, speeding can significantly inflate your driving costs due to fines and increased insurance premiums.
In the UK, speeding is considered a criminal offence, and the consequences are strict. If caught, you will receive a Section 172 notice (requiring you to identify the driver of the vehicle). After you’ve sent the Section 172 notice back, you will generally receive a Fixed Penalty Notice of £100 and three points on your driving licence.
However, in the case of dangerously high speeds (e.g. over 100 mph on a motorway), the penalties become much harsher and can involve court prosecution.
These penalties costs can rack up fast, here’s how:
- Fines: A standard speeding fine starts at £100, but if you are taken to court, the fine can rise to a maximum of £2,500 on a motorway.
- Licence Points: Accumulating points on your licence can lead to increased insurance premiums, which can cost you even more in the long run.
- Speed Awareness Course: If eligible, you might be offered a speed awareness course to avoid points on your licence. These courses can cost around £100 to £150.
Car Loans UK’s Top Tip: To help you stay within the speed limits, consider using cruise control on longer journeys. Almost all modern vehicles come equipped with speed alerts that notify you when you’re exceeding the limit, making it easier than ever to keep your driving at a safe speed.
Habit #2: Using Your Phone While Driving (60%)
The dangers of distracted driving cannot be overstated. When you take your eyes off the road to text, scroll, or take a call, you’re significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
According to 2022 statistics from the UK Department for Transport, 22 people were killed and 652 injured in road traffic collisions where the driver was using a mobile phone.
As you’d expect, being caught using a phone while driving comes with severe punishments. You can face a Fixed Penalty Notice of £200 and receive six points on your driving licence. Accumulating points can lead to further legal consequences, including disqualification from driving, particularly for new drivers who can lose their licence after just six points.
Car Loans UK’s Top Tip: To help eliminate the temptation of using your phone while driving, consider using apps that block notifications or messages when you’re behind the wheel. These apps can help keep distractions at bay, allowing you to focus on the road ahead.
Habit #3: Eating at the Wheel (54%)
While it may not be illegal to eat while driving, it certainly falls into the category of dangerous distractions. When you juggle a sandwich or a coffee, your gaze is taken from the road. If your eating causes you to drive carelessly, you could face fines or points on your licence!
You could be issued a Fixed Penalty Notice of up to £100 and receive three to nine points on your licence. In severe cases, if an accident occurs due to this distraction, the penalties can escalate, and you might face even harsher legal consequences. This is not to mention the repair costs for your vehicle and any other involved parties.
Car Loans UK’s Top Tip: If you feel the hunger pangs, take the time to pull over for a bite to eat. Planning breaks not only allows you to enjoy your food safely but also gives you a chance to stretch and recharge.
Habit #4: Driving Too Close to Other Vehicles (Tailgating) (52%)
Driving too close to the vehicle in front of you (aka tailgating), is a common but dangerous driving habit that can have severe consequences. Not only does it increase the risk of rear-end collisions, but it can also escalate road rage incidents.
In the UK, tailgating is categorised as careless driving. If you’re caught causing danger due to your following distance, you face receiving a Fixed Penalty Notice of up to £100 and three to nine points on your licence. Repeated offences can lead to more serious repercussions, including court appearances and heavier fines.
Car Loans UK’s Top Tip: To avoid the pitfalls of tailgating, implement the two-second rule: ensure there is at least a two-second gap between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This distance provides a buffer that allows for safe stopping in case of sudden braking, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Habit #5: Throwing Rubbish Out of the Window (51%)
Tossing rubbish out of your car window can have serious consequences for the environment and road safety. This habit contributes to pollution and can create hazards for other road users and wildlife.
In the UK, littering is considered a criminal offence under the Environmental Protection Act. If caught discarding rubbish from your vehicle, you could face legal penalties, including a Fixed Penalty Notice of around £80. Local authorities can also issue fines for littering, with failure to pay potentially leading to court appearances fines.
Car Loans UK’s Top Tip: To avoid the temptation of littering, consider keeping a small car bin or disposable bags in your vehicle for rubbish. This simple step can help you maintain a clean car while preventing litter from making its way onto our roads.
Conclusion
The driving habits we’ve discussed are not only dangerous but also financially draining for UK drivers. From speeding to tailgating, each habit can lead to fines, increased insurance premiums, and even accidents that can cost you more than you bargained for.
Now is the time to evaluate your driving habits and make the necessary changes to prioritise safety on the road!
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