Motorists ‘fearful after lockdown’

A HUGE number of younger drivers are nervous about getting back on the road after lockdown, according to a study.

The research by online used-car specialists findandfundmycar.com has revealed that 23 per cent of millennials (those aged from their mid-20s to about 40) are anxious about driving again.

But older people are more relaxed about returning to life at the wheel – just seven per cent of those over 55 had concerns. The survey of 2000 British drivers also revealed that millennials aren’t just worried for their own safety, with 43 per cent saying that they’re anxious about their family members driving again, too.

A geographical breakdown also revealed significant differences in attitudes – with Scots apparently more confident than many others in the UK. Sheffield in Yorkshire had the highest number of nervous drivers (21 per cent), while Glasgow sat mid-table (nine per cent) and Edinburgh motorists were the least worried (three per cent).

A range of reasons were given for the anxiety, with an assumption that more cyclists would be on the road (19 per cent) topping the list. Other drivers not knowing how to drive properly (17 per cent) was also a major factor.

Other concerns cited included having to look out for more pedestrians than normal (10 per cent), driving on the motorway for the first time in months (seven per cent) and not remembering the rules of the road (four per cent).

However, despite cyclists being the highest reason for nervousness, the survey revealed just three per cent more motorists plan to switch to bikes after lockdown.

Findandfundmycar.com boss Phil Morgan said: “It’s great to see that there will be a small increase in walkers and cyclists as they’re great ways to exercise.

“However, it does go to show that many people are worrying about something that’s unlikely to be the case.

“Those that are worried about driving after lockdown should start driving a little more, even if it’s just to the local park for a walk or to the supermarket. Those small trips will help drivers get their confidence back in no time.”

Visit findandfundmycar.com to find out more about its lockdown study.