1 in 4 say they feel anxious about driving

Over a quarter of British motorists say they feel anxious when driving – with icy conditions and fog named the most feared scenarios as winter approaches.

Car insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk have shared eight tips to help nervous drivers feel more at ease as colder, darker days draw near. 

In a recent survey conducted by Quotezone, 26% of respondents said they felt anxious or worried about driving, with icy conditions (18%) topping the list of fears, followed closely by driving in fog (16%). 

Just over one in 10 motorists said driving in the dark is what they dread most – and with the clocks going back, darker evenings are set to make those journeys even more daunting. 

Other notable worries include driving in unfamiliar places (11%), busy city traffic (7%), motorway driving (6%), and driving in the rain (5%). 

In severe cases, the fear of driving – a specific form of anxiety known as amaxophobia – has been reported to affect a growing number of drivers.*

It’s also becoming more common amongst younger drivers, with TikTok searches for “driving anxiety” increasing globally by 98.6% over a six-month period earlier this year.**

The severity of driving anxiety can vary from person to person, but motorists diagnosed with a condition that affects their ability to drive safely must inform the DVLA. Failure to do so can result in a fine of up to £1,000, invalidated insurance, or even prosecution if the driver is involved in an accident as a result.***

Helen Rolph, car insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk said: “It’s natural to feel nervous when driving in poor weather conditions, especially as winter brings icy roads, fog, and darker evenings. But a little extra preparation can go a long way and help to relieve worries behind the wheel. 

“It’s also important to always make sure the vehicle is winter-ready – checking the lights and tyres are in good condition, planning ahead, and keeping winter essentials in the boot in the event of any emergencies. 

“Small steps like these can help drivers to feel more in control, and ready to face winter months on the road with more confidence.

“A refresher course could also help drivers who feel anxious, they can cater to all-weather practice, night driving or busy cities – it could also help reduce the cost of car insurance, demonstrating additional safety measures to the insurer.”

Eight essential tips to help stay calm and confident on winter roads:

1. Plan ahead

Check the weather forecast and traffic updates before you travel, and allow plenty of time if you have to drive in severe conditions. 

2.Take it slow

As well as allowing extra time, drive at a steady, controlled speed. Gentle acceleration and braking help you stay in control on icy or foggy roads.

3.Keep your distance

Leave at least double the usual gap between yourself and the car ahead – even more on ice – to allow for longer stopping distances in poor conditions. 

4.Use lights correctly

Regularly check lights are working and keep headlights and fog lights clean. Use dipped beams in fog, and switch to full beams only on unlit roads when it’s safe and free of other cars.

5.Check tyres

Bare and worn tyres have less grip and can be treacherous in icy conditions. To check tyres, insert 20p into the gap in the tyre tread. The rubber needs to cover the bottom line of the 20p to ensure tyres have enough grip.

6.Refresh 

If you’re low on confidence, consider a refresher or advanced driving course, or practice manoeuvres in quiet areas when conditions are calmer. 

7.Stay calm

Keep music low and be wary of distractions, especially when driving in unfavoured conditions or unfamiliar areas. 

8.Carry winter essentials

Packing a winter essentials kit can help you feel more secure if you get stuck or delayed. Items such as a blanket, ice scraper, torch, phone charger, high-vis jacket and emergency supplies can all come in handy and help you feel more prepared.

As a price comparison site, Quotezone helps millions of drivers compare and find savings on all sorts of car insurance, from older driver insurance to breakdown cover. 

References:
*https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cars/features/midlife-women-amaxophobia-terrified-of-driving-motorway/
**https://plc.autotrader.co.uk/news-views/press-releases/psychologists-offer-advice-as-tiktok-sees-surge-in-driving-anxiety-content/
***https://www.gov.uk/anxiety-and-driving