Motorways: These Are The Top Ten Most Annoying Habits
Driving on motorways can be stressful. Long, monotonous journeys can irk even the most patient of motorists. But bad habits can make things even worse. Here are the top ten most annoying things drivers do on motorways…
1) Not Indicating
Drivers that fail to indicate are irritating regardless of what road they’re on. When they’re making manoeuvres at 70mph on motorways, however, they’re an even bigger pain. Not only is their behaviour frustrating, it’s dangerous. It’s crucial that you make your intentions clear to other drivers and in good time. Indicating half-way through a lane change won’t cut it either.
2) Tailgating
The outside lane of a motorway is designed for (you guessed it) overtaking. If the motorway is littered with HGVs and caravans, it’s your go-to. Unfortunately, it can sometimes be difficult to properly exploit it. Why? Because there’s a number of motorists up and down the UK who think doing 90 – 100 mph is ‘ok’ in the outside lane. This means you’ll regularly find yourself being tailgated. This can be intimidating and distracting. More importantly, it’s a major cause of accidents on motorways.
3) Middle-Lane Hogging
If you’re not overtaking, you should be in the left-hand lane on the motorway. It’s a simple rule but, unfortunately, is very rarely obeyed; despite police forces allegedly imposing steep fines on those who ignore it. Those who decide to hog middle-lanes cause the most nuisance – making it difficult for drivers making their own lane changes.
4) Last Minute Lane Changes
Ok, we’ve probably all had to do this at some stage. Who hasn’t missed a junction? Nevertheless, last minute lane changes range from frustrating to downright disconcerting. Sometimes, they simply mean a driver forgets to indicate or makes a sudden manoeuvre. Other times, they cause reckless drivers to ignore road markings and boundaries entirely. Try to research your route beforehand. At the very least, pay attention to road signs. If you do miss a junction, don’t try to make it at very last second – drive on to the next one.
5) Driving In Closed Lanes
Thanks to smart motorway signage, it’s never been easier to close lanes that have become obstructed; whether it’s a question of a car accident or simple debris. Unfortunately, some drivers see this as an opportunity to massively jump the queue. Their behaviour is disrespectful, extremely dangerous and can make congestion even worse. When the sign bears an ‘X’, stay out of the lane!
6) Driving Too Slowly
Driving too slowly can be just as dangerous as driving too quickly – especially on motorways. The speed limit is 70 mph. That means whilst you shouldn’t be driving at 80 mph, you shouldn’t be driving at 60 mph either. Given that the inside lane is meant to be the primary lane on motorways, there’s really no excuse for driving at an unreasonably slow pace. If a driver isn’t comfortable with the speeds on motorways, they should avoid driving on them until their confidence improves.
7) Speeding
Cars are so ubiquitous with modern life that we sometimes forget how recent they really are; having only become widely available since the 1950s (if not later). As a result, the distances we traverse and the speed of transportation are greater than they’ve ever been; and by an enormous margin. Nevertheless, 70mph simply isn’t good enough for many motorists. Hence the incessant speeding on British motorways. Indeed, some commentators have suggested that the nominal speed limit is actually 80mph, given average recorded speeds. Is it time we asked ourselves, ‘how fast do we need to be able to go in order to be satisfied?’
8) Leaving Full-Beam Headlights On
This is, admittedly, a problem experienced more on regular roads than on motorways. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t troubling. If you’ve ever driven on a motorway in the early hours of the morning, you’ll understand. It’s simply not pleasant being dazzled whilst hurting down the M5 at 70mph. Be considerate and dim your headlights when you see other vehicles approaching.
9) Braking For Average Speed Cameras
Guess what, average speed cameras work on (you guessed it) your average speed. As a consequence, erratic braking is entirely useless in avoiding the dreaded flash and fine. If you want to avoid a speeding fine, the best thing to do is avoid speeding. It’s not rocket science. Plus, all that sudden and dramatic braking will be wreaking havoc on your car’s internals; which will eat away at your coffers sooner or later.
10) Rubbernecking
We know, it’s human nature. You’ve been stuck in heavy traffic for thirty minutes until, suddenly, you see what all the commotion’s about. An accident, a fallen tree or maybe even a wild animal. The point is, whether you’re a driver or a passenger, you shouldn’t be looking at it. Drivers need to keep their eyes on the road. In addition, it’s extremely disrespectful to ogle people who are otherwise stressed, traumatised or seriously injured. Give them some respect and enjoy the clear (or clearer) road ahead.
Here’s What You Need To Know About Driving In Heavy Rain – https://autoserveclub.co.uk/blog/heres-what-you-need-to-know-about-driving-in-heavy-rain/
Motorists Are Struggling With Their Driving Following Lockdown Easing – https://autoserve.co.uk/motoring-news/motorists-are-struggling-with-their-driving-following-lockdown-easing/
