The most annoying things that drivers do at petrol stations
BEING forced to wait while the driver in front does their weekly shop or fiddles with their phone have been named among the top petrol station problems.
Motoring specialists from LeaseCar.uk have revealed eight of the things that most annoy British drivers when filling up their vehicles with fuel.
1. Obstructing two pumps
Bad parking when pulling up to refuel, resulting in the neighbouring pump being temporarily inaccessible, is nothing short of infuriating for other drivers.
2. Wrong lane
There’s also little more frustrating that waiting for another motorist to back up and move to the correct lane if they’ve pulled up by pumps for the wrong payment or fuel type.
3. Wrong side
We’ve all forgotten what side our fuel cap is on before, but drivers waiting patiently behind someone struggling to stretch the nozzle around their car will probably be tutting away.
4. Using disposable gloves
There’s a time and a place for using gloves, such as if the fuel pump handle is dirty, but otherwise you’re likely to get a few stern looks from waiting drivers if you take your time putting them on.
5. Precise costing
Is a minute of trying to gently and precisely squeeze the fuel up from £19.93 to £20 really going to make any difference? Everyone could just get on with their day.
6. Weekly shop before paying
The most annoying problem encountered at a petrol station, by far, is getting stuck waiting your turn behind a driver who has decided now is the perfect time to consider what vegetables they need to accompany dinner.
If you need to do a leisurely weekly shop, or anything more than pay for your fuel and grab a quick snack, you should really pull into a parking space.
7. Ambling back to the car
Taking in the local scenery with a slow, dithering walk across the forecourt back to your car is sure to annoy and fellow drivers waiting patiently behind your vehicle to use the pump.
8. Playing with your phone before leaving
It’s generally considered politely to quickly get out of the way once back in your car after filling up.
If you need to use your phone, adjust the radio or tuck in to your lunch before continuing with your journey, you should find another safe location to stop, rather than blocking the pumps.