Five million Brits ‘too posh’ for public transport

Almost five million (10 per cent) UK adults are ‘too posh’ for public transport, according to research by Direct Line Car Insurance.

The study highlights the nation’s reliance upon private transportation, driven by concerns about personal space, hygiene and the reluctance to share with strangers when using public transport.

One in seven (14 per cent) Brits admit they will not use public transport at all, whilst a further 18 per cent take a bus, train or tube just once or twice a year.  When asked why they used these services so rarely, 24 per cent said they simply didn’t like using them and 12 per cent said it was too busy and uncomfortable. A germ phobic 11 per cent cited hygiene reasons and 7 per cent said they didn’t like sharing transport with strangers.

According to the figures, 53 per cent of all Brits – including those who use public transport – say it’s too overcrowded, and 37 per cent have concerns about hygiene levels or the spread of germs. More than one in five (21 per cent) find public transport claustrophobic and an image conscious 9 per cent even cite concerns over the way they might look if spotted by someone they know on a bus, train or tube.

Public transport concerns

Public transport issue or concern - % of UK adults who share this concern

It’s too over-crowded 53%

I prefer driving 51%

Concerned about hygiene / spread of germs 37%

I get too claustrophobic 21%

I’m embarrassed to use public transport 9%

Source: Direct Line car insurance

Gus Park, Director of motor insurance at Direct Line, said: “While Britain does have its share of bus and train snobs, there are large numbers of people who refuse to use public transport because they consider it over-crowded.  With many rail and bus routes running severely over capacity, people will continue to rely on their cars unless ‘people congestion’ can be alleviated.

“The study highlights how much Britons enjoy and rely upon their own private transportation. Whether it’s getting to and from work or travelling to catch up with friends and family, having a reliable vehicle is extremely important for millions of people who feel public transport isn’t a viable alternative.”

With this in mind, Direct Line now offers its customers a seven day fix, which aims to repair cars within a week. If this doesn’t happen, the customer will receive £10 a day to a maximum of £70. The seven day fix covers all types of damage other than windscreens and it’s a UK wide network.