Drive efficiently, save money

With the recession now a harsh reality, most drivers want to save money and are looking for ways to cut down on motor-related expenses.

Luckily for mature drivers, says RIAS, economical motoring comes instinctively to the over 50s, helping them save money as they go. By driving efficiently, the over 50s reduce fuel spend, keep car maintenance costs to a minimum and cut motor insurance premiums down to size at the same time.

"There are certain tried and tested techniques drivers can adopt to cut down on motoring costs, such as gradual acceleration and braking, using the correct gears, and adopting high levels of road awareness, and these happen to be the natural hallmarks of over 50s driving style", says RIAS Managing Director, Janet Connor. "This type of driving has many advantages, such as decreasing the amount of petrol used, reducing wear and tear on vehicles and, statistically speaking, resulting in fewer accidents. Simply put, the over 50s tend not to make as many insurance claims and are therefore considered relatively low risk. That's why our customers will usually be able to enjoy more competitively priced motor premiums. Efficient driving can bring great benefits all round!"

It's estimated that someone who drives more carefully, as described, could net themselves an annual saving of around 15% on petrol costs alone, and spend less on replacing items such as brake pads and tyres. RIAS has the following advice for drivers, of all ages, who want to follow the over 50s ‘efficient driving' trend:

Plan journeys more carefully to combine different appointments

Make sure tyre pressures are correct, this increases fuel efficiency

Accelerate gradually, don't over-rev: excessive acceleration uses more fuel

Drive in the correct gear: select the highest gear possible without overworking the engine

Slow down gradually: taking your foot off the accelerator to slow down naturally saves excessive wear and tear on breaks

Think about your road position: thinking ahead will allow you to move more gradually

De-clutter your car, and take off your roof rack when it's not in use - additional weight adds massive wind resistance to a car, increasing drag and making the engine work harder