How fast do you really drive? Over 100 mph for one in six
Almost seven million (17 per cent) motorists have hit speeds of 100 mph and above on the motorway, according to new research from Direct Line.
Around two in five (38 per cent) drivers admitted to motorway speeds of over 90 mph and one in 10 (11 per cent) confessed to having driven at 50 mph or above in built-up residential areas.
The insurer’s study questioned motorists about the speeds they have driven at and found that the vast majority have broken UK speed limits, with 79 per cent having broken the 70 mph limit on motorways and 71 per cent having exceeded 30 mph in residential areas. 61 per cent of drivers have also exceeded the speed limit in a 20mph zone.
The research also questioned drivers about the factors most likely to make them speed and found that 55 per cent were likely to significantly increase their speed when the roads are clear. Familiarity with the roads also leads to motorists putting their foot down, with 42 per cent admitting this is a reason they are likely to significantly increase their speed.
Other situations likely to make drivers speed up included knowing there are no speed cameras (23 per cent) and playing upbeat music (11 per cent).
Reasons why motorists would ‘significantly’ increase their speed
Reason to increase speed significantly - % of motorists
When the roads are almost empty 55%
When they are familiar with the roads in that area 42%
When they are in short on time 33%
When there are no speed cameras 23%
When they are not carrying any passengers 23%
When driving a fast car 13%
When listening to upbeat music/songs 11%
When travelling from work 8%
When travelling to work 8%
When the car has good safety credentials 8%
When questioned about instances in which they were likely to reduce their speed, poor weather conditions was the most commonly cited (77 per cent of motorists). Driving in an unfamiliar area (71 per cent), when passing a school (70 per cent) and driving in areas with speed cameras or a police presence (61 per cent) were also common reasons for reducing speed.
Rob Miles, director of Motor at Direct Line, commented: “We know motorists aren’t driving at these excessive speeds all the time, but even as a one-off it’s still extremely dangerous. Even in good driving conditions, the stopping distance at 100mph is almost double the stopping distance at the motorway limit of 70mph.
“It’s easy to put your foot down when you’re feeling rushed or if there aren’t any speed cameras, but we’d urge motorists to drive with due care and attention as many are risking the safety of other road users, as well as their licence.”