Older drivers are the most knowledgeable on the road with grandparents leading the way on road safety, according to new research. A new poll from Veygo by Admiral found that older motorists have the strongest grasp on staying safe, with drivers aware of little-known safety risks and rules.
According to an analysis of 2,000 adults, drivers aged 55 and older are significantly less likely to choose clothing that could restrict movement or visibility. Just 10% of drivers in this age range would wear baggy jeans behind the wheel, compared to the UK average of 21%. Meanwhile, just 1% would wear a puffer coat while driving, compared to 17% for other ages.
Just 2% of over 55s would drive with headphones in their ears, down on the 9% for other younger individuals. Only 5% of older drivers have ever driven uninsured, compared with 17% of all adults.
Although there are no strict laws around what road users wear, the Highway Code states drivers should ensure clothing does not prevent individuals from using the controls in the correct manner.
Speaking to Express.co.uk, James Armstrong, CEO at Veygo, said: “Older drivers have a huge amount of experience behind the wheel, and that really shows in their knowledge of road rules and the care they take when driving.”
Veygo’s study found that older motorists were also less likely to break crucial rules while behind the wheel. This demographic was found to be the least likely to risk driving without a valid car insurance policy.
The survey found that only 5% of older drivers above the age of 55 had admitted to doing so, far below the national average of 17%. However, the poll found that older motorists were now turning one eye on the future, with many happy to invest in helping the next generation on the road.
The research found that one in five grandparents have contributed financially to their grandchild’s driving lessons – spending an average of £142. A total of 13% of those surveyed helped pay for petrol, with 11% even contributing to the purchase of their grandchild’s future car.
James told Express.co.uk: “Many grandparents are playing an active role in helping younger people build confidence, learn safely and afford the costs of getting on the road. It’s a reminder that while learning to drive can feel daunting, young people aren’t going through the journey alone.”
