New analysis highlights dangerous refuelling habits amongst UK drivers – with price, comfort, and lack of understanding all enjoying a component.
A current research from Uswitch automobile insurance coverage has revealed that just about half of UK motorists (49%) delay refuelling their autos till their gas tank is lower than 1 / 4 full – with 22% pushing it to the restrict and ready till the warning gentle comes on.
As well as, nearly two in 5 (39%) drivers admit they don’t fill their tank utterly after they do cease for gas. For a lot of, the explanations are monetary: 38% say they solely finances for rapid driving wants, whereas 33% say they merely can’t afford a full tank. Different drivers cite issues about carrying further weight (27%) or not needing a full tank as a result of rare driving (26%).
A Dangerous Technique
Regardless of the potential risks, many drivers stay unaware of the dangers related to persistently driving on low gas. In line with the survey:
- 41% didn’t know sediment or particles might construct up within the gas tank
- 51% have been unaware this might injury the gas pump and filter
- 37% didn’t realise low gas will increase the chance of breaking down
Alarmingly, 9% weren’t conscious of any unfavorable penalties in any respect
Virtually one in 5 (18%) have skilled a breakdown as a result of working out of gas, and in 2022 alone, the AA attended over 10,500 such incidents throughout the UK.
Comfort Over Price
Regardless of rising gas costs – with unleaded petrol now averaging 139.42p per litre and diesel at 146.58p – solely 17% of drivers actively hunt down the most affordable filling stations. As a substitute, 36% go to their native forecourt and 21% select the closest one on the time, prioritising comfort over price.
With over half (56%) of UK adults reporting an increase in the price of dwelling this yr, it’s little shock that drivers are pondering rigorously about how a lot they spend on the pump. However these habits could possibly be storing up hassle.
Suggestions for ADIs and Their Pupils
Leoni Moninska, automobile insurance coverage knowledgeable at Uswitch, affords some sensible steerage to keep away from fuel-related points:
“Ensure you have sufficient gas earlier than any journey,” she advises. “It is a fundamental requirement underneath The Freeway Code (Rule 97) and helps keep away from emergencies. Strive to not let your tank drop under 1 / 4.”
Within the occasion of a fuel-related breakdown, she urges drivers to prioritise security: “Transfer to a protected location, swap on hazard lights, and by no means depart your automobile in a harmful place – this might lead to an FPN, three penalty factors and a £100 superb.”
She additionally suggests utilizing on-line instruments to search out the most affordable native gas costs, driving extra easily to cut back gas use, and guaranteeing the automobile is well-maintained for optimum effectivity.
A Teachable Second
For Accepted Driving Instructors (ADIs), this analysis affords a beneficial alternative to boost consciousness amongst pupils about accountable automobile upkeep and journey planning. Understanding the dangers of driving on low gas – and the easy methods to avoid wasting on the pump – varieties an necessary a part of creating protected, economical drivers.
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