IAM RoadSmart has published its latest annual Driving Safety Culture report, revealing driver concerns over the cost of motoring, safety issues, and drink and drug driving.

The report reveals driver concerns over the cost of motoring, safety issues, and drink and drug driving

Now in its eighth edition, the latest report finds that the cost of motoring is considered the biggest issue compared to three years ago, followed by potholes, roadworks / road closures and traffic congestion.

Consistent with previous years, there are eight main issues that at least 80% of motorists consider to be a threat to their personal safety, and these include drivers checking or updating social media (90%), text messaging or emailing (88%) and driving after drinking alcohol or using illegal drugs (89%).

Meanwhile, of the 18 behaviours tested, the only types of behaviours over half of motorists believe other people consider acceptable are talking on a hands-free mobile device and driving 10mph over the speed limit on a motorway. Use of social media, typing text messages or emails, driving and drinking or using drugs is largely considered unacceptable.

The report also reveals that 89% of respondents support reinstating the hard shoulder on all smart motorways and 86% would back a law restricting e-scooters to cycle lanes only, setting age limits and introducing strict design and construction standards. Three-quarters claim to support the hierarchy of road users in the new Highway Code.

More than nine in 10 drivers have been affected by potholes over the past year. A third (33%) have changed route to avoid them while 19% have reported a pothole to the authorities.

Drink and drug driving remains drivers’ clear top priority for police action against bad driving behaviour, with 60% ranking this first of the six areas tested – reinforcing the charity’s call for the Government to prioritise the growing drink and drug driving crisis on Britain’s roads.

Neil Greig, director of policy and research at IAM RoadSmart, said: “The Driving Safety Culture Report shines a light on the key issues facing motorists on UK roads, and by capturing this information it helps IAM RoadSmart to evolve and refocus its attention to best support road users.

“The main findings from this report, such as the cost of motoring, the conditions of the roads, and drink and drug driving, will help us to tailor our campaigns and messaging to represent British motorists and in turn make UK roads a safer place for everyone.”

To find out more about IAM RoadSmart and to download the full report, click here.