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Speeding was popular amongst UK drivers with 52 percent admitting they break the rules at least once since lockdowns were imposed. The latest research by motoring solicitors at Kenway Miller backs up police forces who have reported an increase during the shutdown.
Some forces felt drivers were using the roads like “race tracks” as once busy routes were left bare.
Matthew Miller, managing director at Kenway Miller said drivers were “letting slip” of their standards due to the quiet roads.
He warned road users it was “vitally important” to be aware of their surroundings and follow the Highway Code for their own safety.
He said: “Jumping in the car for a drive can be a great excuse to get away from the same four walls for a while as lockdown continues.
“It’s no surprise that the roads are quieter and that many feel it might therefore be a safer time to be driving.
“However, it’s vitally important to be fully away of your surroundings and adhere to the highway code during lockdown as it is at any other time of year.
“Police forces up and down the country have been reporting an increase in the number of road users who are speeding.
“Our research does in fact confirm this along with a number of other important driving standards that motorists appear to be letting slip as a result of ‘quieter’ roads.”
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The survey continued to reveal a horrifying picture of roads across the UK with safety standards dramatically falling.
The research revealed that 38 percent of drivers have admitted to being less strict about signalling while out on the roads.
A further 52 percent of drivers say they have not been checking their mirrors as often as they should have while driving.
Drivers who are caught breaking any of these issues could find themselves charged with reckless driving or driving without due care and attention.
This could see drivers issued a £100 on-the-spot fine or a court appearance where fines can dramatically rise.
The report also revealed that one in five motorists say they continued to drive a car in lockdown despite issues with their vehicles.
This includes basic issues such as brake light failures, headlight issues or simply running out of wiper fluid.
Driving a car which is considered to be in an unsuitable condition for the road can lead to drivers being issued charges of up to £2,500 and three penalty points.
In a dangerous revelation, Kenway Miller’s report found 19 percent of those surveyed admitted to using a mobile phone behind the wheel whilst roads have been quieter.
Drivers who are caught using a device will be liable for a fixed penalty charge of £200 and six penalty points on their licence.
This would be enough to see some newly qualified drivers have their licence revoked while offenders will also see their car insurance policies are affected.
In some cases, police officers may consider that your actions have put yourself or other road users at risk and issue dangerous driving charges.
This would see offenders issued up to a £5,000 fine, nine penalty points and even a temporary ban.
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