The increasing cost of motoring is causing changes to driving habits, with almost a third (30%) now being more careful with how often they drive, as revealed in a Opinium* survey of 2,000 UK drivers, commissioned by InsuretheGap.com, a leading provider of GAP (Guaranteed Asset Protection) insurance.
Two fifths of drivers (42%) are also driving less than five years ago and one in five (17%) are cycling and walking for short journeys instead of using the car. Furthermore, almost one in five (18%) say they are driving slower to save on fuel.
Worryingly, almost a fifth (18%) of drivers say they are being priced out of driving, although only 7% are actually thinking of getting rid of their car.
When it comes to car servicing and maintenance, some drivers who would have had their car serviced when they had their MOT are now not bothering (10%) and others are also putting off repairs (9%).
Ben Wooltorton, from InsuretheGap, said: “The cost-of-living crisis as well as changed behaviour from the pandemic, including the rise in working from home, may go some way to explaining these changes in how people are using their cars.
“There may also be environmental pressures causing drivers to be more mindful about their car usage.
“What’s particularly worrying is seeing how many drivers are fearful that they may not be able to afford to run and maintain a car as it’s often a necessity in rural areas with only limited public transport options.”
The survey of 2,000 UK drivers (18+) was carried out by Opinium from 26 – 31 January 2023.
