RAC Report on Motoring 2016 - The road to the future
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RAC Report on
RAC Report on Motoring 2016
Motoring 2016
The road to the future
#ROM2016
September 2016 ISBN 978-0-9576829-3-1
RAC House Brockhurst Crescent Walsall WS5 4AW
Website: rac.co.uk © Copyright 2016 XX0916
9.0 Company overview
RAC
RAC Report
Report onon Motoring
Motoring 9.0 Company overview
Contents
Contents Contacts
Foreword
Foreword 4 4 2.0 2.0
RoadRoad safety
safety 30 30 4.0 Withand
Air quality more
thethan eight million 62
environment members Advisory Panel
Executive summary 6 2.1 2.1 A rise
A rise in phone
in phone fears
fears 32 32 4.1 the RAC
Air quality is one of the UK’s most
concerns 64 This report was guided by the
Executive summary 6 2.2
2.2 Pushing the
Pushing the limits limits 38 38 4.2 progressive motoring
Choice of next vehicle organisations,
68 expert contributions of the RAC
1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds? 10 10 2.3 Drink
1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds? 2.3 Drink andand drug-driving
drug-driving 42 42 4.3 providing
The emissions services
scandal andfor both private and
trust Report on Motoring Advisory Panel.
1.1 1.1 The cost of motoring
The cost of motoring 14 14 business drivers.
in manufacturers 72
3.0 3.0
The The state
state of our
of our roads
roads 46 46 Chaired by David Bizley,
1.2 1.2
RoadRoad safety
safety 22 22
3.1 Chief Engineer, RAC
1.3 The state ofroads
our roads 26 3.1 Ongoing problems with local roads 48 48
Ongoing problems with local roads 5.0 The carInofitsthe future
role 76
as the motorist’s champion
1.3 The state of our 26
Do not print this page
3.2 3.2 Congestion
Congestion andand parking
parking difficulties54 54
difficulties 5.1 When will we see driverless cars?
the RAC campaigns to support the 78 David Davies, Executive Director,
1.4 Congestion and parking 28 Parliamentary Advisory Council for
1.4 Congestion and parking 28 3.3 Incident response and variable
3.3 Incident response and variable 5.2 Trust in technology
interests of its members and82UK Transport Safety
message signs 58
message signs 58 motorists at a national level, including
(back cover) from
6.0 RAC calls to action 88 Stephen Joseph, Chief Executive,
advancing levels of road safety, Campaign for Better Transport
7.0 Who issupporting
the motorist? 92drivers
the needs of young Sarah Sillars, Chief Executive,
and voicing concerns about the
this document.
8.0 Appendix 93 IAM RoadSmart
increasing
8.1 Research cost of motoring. 93
methodology David Leibling,
Transport and Motoring Consultant
8.2 Statistical
The reliability 93
RAC is committed to making
Graeme Paton, Transport Correspondent,
Print from cover A/W
9.0 motoring
Company easier, safer, more affordable
overview/Contacts 95 The Times
and more enjoyable for drivers and Theo de Pencier, Non-executive Board
other road users. Many of the Member, Transport Focus
document supplied organisation’s products and services
aim to do just that: the RAC Cars
website allows anyone to sell their
Daryl Lloyd, Head of Road Safety Statistics,
Department for Transport
Steve Gooding, Director,
car free of charge, the RAC Vehicle RAC Foundation
Check gives would-be buyers valuable Mike Hawes, Chief Executive,
insight into a vehicle’s past and RAC Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders
telematics helps make insuring a car RAC Press Team
more affordable for young drivers. Tel: 01454 664 123
Email: press.enquiries@rac.co.uk
As the UK’s oldest motoring Credits
organisation the RAC continues Report author: Chris Torney
Design & illustration: milestonecreative.co.uk
to be at the forefront of innovation, Printing: The APS Group
driven by its vision to be the Connect
motorist’s champion and the one- RAC’s news releases and a selection of
images are available from the RAC’s online
stop-shop for all motoring needs. press centre rac.co.uk/press-centre
Follow the conversation on
Facebook and Twitter:
RAC
on Facebook
@TheRAC_UK and @RAC_Press
on Twitter
A pdf copy of this report is available at Share your thoughts directly with us
rac.co.uk/ROM2016 – use #ROM2016 on Twitter
2 95
2 3
RAC Report on Motoring 2016 Foreword
Foreword
Julia Bradbury
I am delighted to introduce the RAC’s 28th annual many areas across the UK are in a
pretty poor state. It’s not surprising
As an ambassador for UK Scouting
I see many examples of how the
Report on Motoring. My enthusiasm for the great therefore that the state of local movement helps to educate and
outdoors is well known and in my capacity as roads is the number-one concern inform young people through
for motorists in 2016. activities which are not only fun, but
president of The Camping and Caravanning (C&C) also lay the foundations that help
With fuel more affordable, it is
Club, I meet many fellow enthusiasts. understandable that our roads
them to develop into responsible
members of society. The Cubs’
have become busier over the last
road safety badge, which is a joint
We tend to take our cars for granted year and this has translated into
initiative by the RAC and the Scout
but the majority of us who love increased concern about congestion
Association and is ably supported
camping and caravanning depend and lengthier journey times for
by the RAC’s Road Safety mascot
upon them, and the freedom that they both local and longer trips. I am
Horace, is a great example of this.
give us, to travel to remote places to sure many of the C&C Club’s
enjoy the scenery and explore the members have experienced this As in previous years, the report is
area. The C&C Club has nearly and are starting their journeys at a fascinating window on motoring
600,000 members from all walks times when traffic is likely to be at and the views of motorists. What’s
of life and their views are likely to its lightest. more, it offers insight that can help
be a microcosm of those of the drive improvements for motorists
The Report highlights that road
wider motoring public. in the months and years ahead.
safety issues are high on the list
Fuel prices have been a top concern of motorists’ concerns. But it’s the Julia Bradbury
for all drivers for a number of years irresponsible behaviour of a small
but with the fall in world oil prices, minority of drivers that concern
research for this year’s report responsible motorists. It is
shows that this has dropped down those who insist on using their
the list of motorists’ concerns smartphones without a hands-free
compared with previous years. kit while driving, those who drive
uninsured or untaxed vehicles,
But we cannot say the same
those who ignore traffic law and
about the state of the roads.
those who, despite all of the
Driving into a pothole can
warnings, still drive when over the
do huge damage to any
drink-drive limit, who increase
vehicle’s wheels, tyres
the risk of accidents for all of us.
and suspension and
while the country’s The development of our attitudes
motorways and as road users starts when we are
major roads are young. We follow our parents’
generally in a example and we learn from other
decent condition, role models at school and in
rural roads in outside interest groups.
4 5
RAC Report on Motoring 2016 Executive summary
Executive summary
With more than The poor condition of local roads is
becoming an even bigger concern.
Motorists are becoming more
worried about other drivers using
Falling fuel prices have reduced the
financial pressures on motorists.
38 million motorists their phones.
When asked to identify their top Falls in petrol and diesel prices in
in Great Britain1 concern, more motorists (14%) say Road safety is invariably a major 2015 and the early months of 2016
it is of vital importance the state and maintenance of local concern in the Report on Motoring, mean that most motorists now
roads than any other matter. Local but this year’s research has identified face lower vehicle running costs.
that the country’s roads were also the most common a further significant increase in the Only 7% of drivers say fuel prices
politicians, policymakers, top concern in 2015, but last year number of motorists who are worried are their top concern this year,
transport authorities only 10% of respondents ranked about other drivers using handheld down from 10% 12 months ago.
this issue at number one. mobile phones to make calls or
and motor industry take check messages and notifications.
However, the Report also found
The increase in dissatisfaction is that there has been little change in
their views and concerns not a surprise: while ministers More than two-fifths of those overall expenditure on fuel, which
into account when have pledged extra funds both for questioned (41%) said this was one suggests that many motorists are
planning for the future. filling potholes and preventative
maintenance, the Government’s
of their biggest concerns, a sharp
rise on the 34% recorded in 2015.
simply taking advantage of lower
forecourt prices to use their cars
The 2016 RAC Report on Motoring own analysis suggests there is a more. Concern about the cost of
covers a wide range of topics, Worryingly, a significant minority
multi-billion-pound backlog of insurance has increased and is now
from hardy perennials such as the of motorists (31%) admit to having
repairs that is likely to take many number one for 7% of motorists.
price of fuel and the state of both used a handheld phone to make
years to be addressed2. Indeed, the cost of insurance is
local and major roads, to more or receive calls while driving at
now a greater financial concern
contemporary issues like the There is strong support for some point in the past 12 months.
than the cost of fuel.
dangers of smartphone use and Government funding to be ring-fenced Meanwhile, a fifth of drivers (20%)
motorists’ views on the introduction for local road maintenance: 32% of think it is safe to text or check
of driverless vehicles. motorists think this should be the social media while they are sitting
UK’s top transport investment in stationary traffic, despite this
The Report is based on research priority, while 80% think it should be being against the law.
conducted with a representative a top-five priority. Indeed, almost half
sample of more than 1,700 (45%) of drivers say they would be
motorists around the UK. willing to pay higher levels of vehicle
tax if the revenues were used to
As ever, it reveals drivers’ current
improve roads.
attitudes and concerns while also
painting a picture of how and why car
owners’ views are evolving over time.
The key findings in the 2016 Report
are as follows:
1. h ttps://data.gov.uk/dataset/driving-licence-data
2. www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/443898/Productivity_Plan_web.pdf
6 7
RAC Report on Motoring 2016 Executive summary
Executive summary
Drivers are being increasingly There is a growing trend for drivers A significant percentage of motorists The UK’s bid to become a pioneer
affected by congestion and slower to break the speed limits on country have serious concerns about the air in the introduction of driverless
journey times. roads and in urban 20mph zones. quality where they live. vehicles may flounder unless
more effective action is taken to
A rise in road-traffic volumes over The 2016 Report shows a worrying More than a third of motorists
communicate the benefits of this
2015 – itself a result of lower fuel trend with more motorists admitting (34%) say they are worried about
technology to the general public.
prices and improved economic to exceeding speed limits on country their local air quality, while 40%
conditions – has resulted in more roads and in the growing number of of drivers say they are more Most motorists (76%) do not expect
motorists complaining of higher urban 20mph zones. concerned about this issue now driverless cars to become available
congestion levels. Over a quarter than 12 months ago. In terms of to the public before the end of the
While the number of drivers who
(27%) of those questioned say public policy, there appears to be current decade, while only half
admit to speeding in general has
congestion and longer journey strong support (from 66% of (49%) expect autonomous vehicles
not increased significantly over the
times are a top-four concern in drivers) for action to cut vehicle to outnumber conventional models
past 12 months, the percentage of
2016, well up on the 18% recorded pollution in the areas with the worst by 2070 – this is despite ministers’
motorists who admit to speeding on
last year. These concerns are air quality, while 55% of motorists current plans to turn the UK into a
country roads – which are where
greatest among those living in support the Clean Air Zones set to leader in driverless-car technology.
the majority of fatal accidents occur
the South East of England. be introduced in a number of cities
– has risen from 38% to 48% over The Government’s success in this
by the end of the decade.
Seven in 10 motorists (71%) say the last five years. endeavour will be heavily influenced
that the time taken to complete Despite this, issues such as the by its ability to convince motorists of
The proportion who say they have
local journeys is becoming harder environmental impact of motoring the benefits of autonomous vehicles.
broken the speed limit on 20mph
to predict, while a very similar and pollution from diesel engines At present, only a quarter of drivers
roads has risen from 38% in 2011
proportion (70%) say the same rank low on the list of drivers’ (27%) believe such cars will lead to
to 46%.
about trips on major roads. spontaneous concerns. safer roads, while a similarly low
As in previous years, there is still percentage (28%) expect driverless
The availability of parking has also
a strong majority of drivers (66%) cars to reduce congestion. Almost
become a greater concern in 2016:
who believe the 70mph motorway half (48%) of respondents say they
14% of motorists say this is one of
speed limit should be raised to are not looking forward to travelling
their top four concerns this year,
80mph at least. in a driverless vehicle.
compared with 8% in 2015.
8 9
RAC Report on Motoring 2016 1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
1.0
What’s on
motorists’
minds?
Since the election of the
Conservative Government in
May 2015, the UK economy has
continued to grow at a steady
pace while unemployment
has fallen and wages risen.
However, it remains to be seen
what medium and long-term
impact the June 2016 decision
to leave the European Union will
have on the nation’s prosperity. >
Page 14 Page 22 Page 26
The cost of motoring Road safety The state of our roads
10
RAC Report on Motoring 2016 1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
14%
With affluence increasing and Perceived increases in congestion
lower forecourt prices, it comes and difficulties in parking have also
as little surprise that the cost of become more significant concerns, Number one
fuel has again gone down the as has the cost of motor insurance. concerns
ranking of motorists’ concerns
since last year’s Report on
At the same time, there has been a
surprisingly sharp decline in concern
of motorists
of motorists are most
Motoring was published. about drink-driving.
concerned about the
But in other areas, worries are on And while environmental issues
condition of local roads
the rise. A far greater proportion of such as the diesel emissions scandal
13%
drivers are critical of the condition have been prominent in news
of the roads near where they live, reports in recent months, these
5%
while there has also been a sharp barely register as a major concern
increase in the number of people among UK motorists.
who are concerned about the
8%
irresponsible and potentially highly
dangerous behaviour of other of drivers are most concerned
motorists, in particular those who about drivers using a handheld
mobile phone to talk, text or worry most about other
use handheld mobile phones while
access the internet while driving motorists driving under
at the wheel. of drivers say the cost the influence of alcohol
of insurance is their
7%
biggest concern
worry most about traffic
congestion/slower
journey times
7%
worry most about people
driving cars without tax
or insurance
12 13
RAC Report on Motoring 2016 1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
1.1 The cost of motoring many forecourts were selling both By way of contrast, the equivalent GDP grew by 2.2% over the course
Ongoing global economic uncertainty for less than £1 a litre. By way of figures for 2014 and 2013 – at a of 2015, and by a further 0.4% in
coupled with oversupply from oil- comparison, in June and July 2015, time when fuel was significantly the first three months of this year5.
producing nations has led to much petrol averaged more than 115p a more expensive – were 47% and
At the same time, wage growth has
lower oil prices and the cost of fuel litre and diesel more than 120p4. 63% respectively.
remained positive: in April 2016, the
in the UK fell accordingly, reaching
It is hardly surprising therefore In addition to cheaper petrol and Office for National Statistics reported
low prices not seen for seven years.
that the price of fuel has become diesel prices, increased economic an average weekly earnings growth
At the start of 2016, the price of a far less of a concern for UK road prosperity has no doubt played a rate of 2%, well ahead of inflation.
barrel of crude dipped below $30 users this year: just 7% of those part in reducing concerns about
– its lowest level for 12 years and questioned say the price of filling vehicle running costs. The UK’s
Diesel
Diesel
Unleaded
Unleaded
less than half of what it was just six up is their top motoring concern,
months earlier – and pump prices down from 10% in 2015.
in Britain followed3.
RAC Fuel Watch data shows that the
Less than a quarter – 24% – named
expenditure on fuel as one of their
The cost of fuel
average price of a litre of unleaded four most pressing concerns in Retail Diesel Wholesale Diesel
in January 2016 was just over 102p 2016, down slightly from the 26%
while diesel was down to 101p – and 12 months ago. Retail Unleaded Wholesale Unleaded
120
120
cost pence/litre
pence/litre
110
110
fuel cost
Average fuel
RAC Fuel Watch provides a daily
100
100 insight into how petrol and diesel
Average
prices are changing – both on
the wholesale market and on the
forecourt – as well as a detailed
monthly analysis of how much
prices have gone up or down.
90
90
August
August2015
2015 September
September2015
2015 October
October2015
2015 November
November2015
2015 December
December2015
2015 January
January2016
2016 February
February2016
2016 March
March2016
2016 April
April2016
2016 May
May2016
2016 June
June2016
2016 July
July2016
2016 See rac.co.uk/fuelwatch
3. R AC Fuel Watch Source: Experian Catalist
4. www.rac.co.uk/press-centre#/blog_posts/average-uk-wholesale-and-pump-fuel-prices-since-january-2015-42326
5. www.ons.gov.uk
14 15
RAC Report on Motoring 2016 1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
Following June’s EU referendum, That said, the process of
the outlook for both the UK renegotiating trade deals with our
economy and fuel prices has European partners and of actually
become less clear. A recovery in the leaving the EU is likely to take
oil price in the spring of 2016 means many months and involves a high
that forecourt costs have started to degree of uncertainty making it
creep back up again. But with OPEC extremely difficult to speculate
– the Organisation of the Petroleum about future economic conditions.
Exporting Countries – seemingly
In the 2015 Report on Motoring, the
committed to exerting downward
RAC called for greater transparency
pressure on oil prices in order to
over how retailers set prices for
retain market share through a policy
petrol and diesel. This was due in part
of excess supply, wholesale prices
to the fact that diesel vehicle owners
– in dollar terms at least – are
had failed to see any benefit from the
expected to remain relatively low.
diesel wholesale price falling below
For British motorists, however, that of petrol in the second quarter
the weaker value of sterling of 2015: during this period, average
following the EU referendum could diesel pump prices remained
feed through into higher pump stubbornly higher than petrol, in
prices in the coming months. the RAC’s view, for no good reason.
Over the past 12 months, the situation has improved to
some extent, with changes in the wholesale prices of
each type of fuel being more consistently reflected on
the UK’s forecourts: it should be of some consolation to
“Fuel has been plummeting for a year so it’s no drivers of diesel vehicles that they are no longer being
surprise that pump prices have fallen down the
list of priorities for British motorists. charged the 5p-a-litre premium that was commonplace
But with the Chancellor claiming three-quarters of every in the early months of last year. However, retailers do
pound spent on the forecourts, it won’t take much for that to
change. I’d expect to see fuel prices rocket in motorists’ list at times still appear to be particularly slow off the mark
of concerns next year if the impact of Brexit really bites.” when it comes to passing on falls in diesel wholesale
GRAEME PATON
Transport Correspondent
prices to their customers. This is no doubt at least
The Times partly due to the media’s tendency to focus on unleaded
prices when reporting on changes in fuel costs.
16 17
RAC Report on Motoring 2016 1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
Transparency over the prices
charged for fuel at motorway
Moreover, initial results from this
trial have been disappointing, with
The Conservatives’ decision to
services has also been an important little if any reduction in fuel prices extend the fuel-duty freeze
issue facing drivers in recent years. reported across the motorway introduced by the coalition in
Progress in tackling this problem service stations involved.
has been frustratingly slow, despite
2011 has clearly helped, though
Lower petrol and diesel prices
firm commitments from both the
have had little significant impact
UK fuel tax rates are higher
previous coalition Government
and the current Conservative
on how much motorists feel they than much of the rest of Europe.
are spending on fuel: just 31%
administration to take action.
of those surveyed say they are
More than three years ago, the spending more on filling up than
Office of Fair Trading recommended 12 months ago compared with
installing signs on the motorway 32% who say their expenditure is
network to show fuel prices falling. The respective figures in
at upcoming service stations: 2015 were 31% and 33%. However,
this proposal was intended to lower pump prices may simply
allow drivers to shop around result in some motorists using
more easily, thereby increasing their cars more, thus offsetting
competition between retailers and any benefit of the price reduction.
driving down what were thought
to be excessively high prices.
The coalition originally promised
that a trial of such signs on the M5
near Bristol would begin in early
2015. But a succession of delays
31%
of motorists surveyed say they
are spending more on filling up
meant the pilot scheme was not than 12 months ago
introduced until March this year.
34%
of motorists say their
expenditure on fuel is falling
18 19RAC Report on Motoring 2016 RAC call to action: 1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
Cost of motoring: see page 88
1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
While most drivers say the cost One factor that has helped to push
of taxing their vehicles has not costs up is the decision by the
changed in the past year, 30% say Government to increase the rate
it has risen – exactly the same of Insurance Premium Tax to 9.5%
proportion as in 2015. from 6% last autumn, and then to
10% in the March 2016 Budget.
A slightly smaller proportion than
in 2015 (44% versus 41%) reported Insurance price rises were reflected
that their car maintenance bills had in motorists’ general concerns:
increased in the past 12 months. 8% say insurance bills are their
There was also a strong rise in the top concern in 2016, compared with
proportion of motorists who say just 5% last year. In fact, the cost
their motor insurance premiums of cover ranks as the third most
have risen: almost half (46%) say common top concern, behind the
their car insurance costs have condition of local roads and drivers
increased since last year compared using handheld phones.
with 34% who said the same in 2015.
And more than a quarter of motorists
This is borne out by industry data, (26%) say insurance prices are one of
which shows the average premium their four most serious concerns this
rose by 14% in the 12 months to year. Only 18% did so in 2015.
March 2016, from £590 to £6716.
Average insurance
premium cost increase
2016 46%
of motorists have felt a rise in
insurance premiums over the
last 12 months
2015
“The cost of insurance is one of our members’
biggest concerns because prices are going up, and
590 671
the whole market is rising – but people are saying,
‘I haven’t had an accident so therefore with my
£ £ track record, why are my premiums going up?’”
SARAH SILLARS
Chief Executive
IAM RoadSmart
6. www.confused.com/car-insurance/price-index/overall
20 21RAC Report on Motoring 2016 1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
1.2 Road safety There has also been a rise in overall
There is growing concern among concern about other drivers breaking
motorists about the irresponsible traffic laws: 23% say this is a top- Road safety concerns
and potentially highly dangerous four concern, up from 19% last year.
behaviour of other road users.
Overall concern about drink-driving
More than two in five (41%) of
is high but has fallen (22% now cite
motorists say that drivers using
this as a top-four concern, down
41% 22% 17%
handheld mobile phones – whether
from 29% in 2015). Likewise,
to make and receive calls, send text
concern about driving under the
messages, or browse the internet –
influence of illegal drugs or banned
is one of their top four concerns, up
prescription medication is down by
from a third (34%) in 2015 – a higher
a small amount (total concern is
percentage than for any other issue.
17% compared with 19% last year).
And 13% of drivers say that use
of handheld phones by other of motorists say that drivers of motorists cite drink of motorists are concerned
using handheld mobile driving as one of their top about people driving
motorists is their number-one phones – whether to make four concerns under the influence of
concern in 2016 – only the condition and receive calls, send text illegal drugs or banned
and maintenance of local roads messages, or browse the prescription medication
internet – is one of their top
(14%) is cited as a bigger issue. four concerns
There is growing concern among motorists
“Concern among motorists over drink-driving has
fallen this year, even though the number of deaths about the irresponsible and potentially highly
involving a driver over the limit has remained at dangerous behaviour of other road users.
the same level.
It may simply be that motorists are more aware of other
issues, such as mobile phones. However, drink-driving
remains a major killer – some 240 deaths a year – and must
remain a priority for road safety.”
DAVID DAVIES
Executive Director
Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety
22 23RAC Report on Motoring 2016 RAC call to action: 1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
Road safety: see page 88
1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
While not as potentially hazardous The continuing year-on-year
as handheld phone use or drink decline in the number of dedicated
and drug-driving, rudeness is also roads policing officers over recent
a more serious issue for motorists years7 is likely only to have fuelled
in 2016: over a fifth (21%) now say fears that irresponsible driving will
this is a concern, up from 15% go unpunished: 6% of motorists say
12 months ago. this issue is a top-four concern.
There has been a further small Finally, concern about untaxed
increase in concern about the vehicles and/or uninsured drivers
behaviour of cyclists on the road: remains high: 27% name this as a
18% of motorists cite this as an top-four concern, up very slightly
issue, up from 16% in 2015. from last year’s 26%. The RAC
warned that Vehicle Excise Duty
(VED) revenues could suffer as a
result of increased evasion after the
tax disc was scrapped in October
2014, and motorists were no longer
required to display evidence they
have paid their road tax.
Figures published in the
DVLA’s annual report
and accounts in July
showed VED revenue
fell by £93m in the year
18% 21%
following the abolition
of the paper tax disc.
of drivers cite concern about of motorists think rudeness is
the behaviour of cyclists on now a more serious concern
the road as an issue
7. w
ww.rac.co.uk/press-centre#/pressreleases/2015-sees-further-fall-in-numbers-of-dedicated-roads-
policing-officers-1414666
24 25RAC Report on Motoring 2016 RAC call to action: 1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
The state of our roads: see page 90
1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
1.3 The state of our roads The Government has committed Half of motorists (51%) say the Four-fifths (80%) think local road
For one in every seven motorists to invest £6bn into local road state of the roads in their area has maintenance should be a top-five
(14%), the condition and maintenance maintenance between 2015 and worsened over the past 12 months, spending priority (78% in 2015).
of local roads is their most 20218 while in the March 2016 with the preponderance of potholes
51%
pressing concern, making it the Budget, the Conservatives agreed by far the main culprit. This is
most serious issue in this year’s to set up a £50m-a-year Pothole against just 9% who say their local
Report on Motoring. Problems with Action Fund to deal with the most roads have in fact improved.
deteriorating road surfaces and serious road-surface defects9. of motorists say the state
By way of contrast, only 2% of drivers
potholes have been growing for many of the roads in their area
But it appears these policies have say the state of our motorways is has worsened over the past
years now, but matters appear to be
so far failed to have any material a top concern, while a total of 12% 12 months
getting worse at an alarming rate,
impact on motorists’ perceptions on named this as one of their four most
according to the drivers the RAC
the condition of local roads. This is serious concerns.
80%
surveyed. In 2015, only 10% named
not really surprising given that the
local roads as their top concern. Not surprisingly, a third of motorists
Department for Transport’s own
(32%) still think that maintenance
Almost two-fifths of motorists analysis suggested that there was
of local roads should be the
(38%) listed local road conditions an £8.6bn backlog10 in local road of drivers think local road
Government’s top priority when
as a top-four concern this year, maintenance and independent maintenance should be a
it comes to transport investment top-five spending priority
up from less than a third (30%) analysis suggests the backlog may
– a slight rise on last year’s 30%.
12 months ago. be even greater11.
8. www.gov.uk/government/news/6-billion-funding-to-tackle-potholes-and-improve-local-roads
9. www.gov.uk/government/news/cash-for-councils-to-fill-almost-1-million-potholes
10.
www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/443898/Productivity_Plan_web.pdf
11.
www.asphaltindustryalliance.com/images/library/files/ALARM%202016/ALARM_survey_2016_full_report.pdf
26 27RAC Report on Motoring 2016 1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds?
1.0 What’s on motorists’ minds? RAC call to action:
The state of our roads: see page 90
1.4 Congestion and parking
Motorists have reported a sharp rise that typical traffic speeds were (14%) say that the availability of emissions claims made by motor
in concern about congestion and down, with average delays up by parking is one of their four biggest manufacturers. Even fewer (6%)
journey times this year. More than 5.5% on 2014. concerns this year, a significant are concerned about the impact
a quarter of drivers (27%) say these increase on the 8% recorded last of diesel emissions on health.
It is highly likely that road traffic
issues are among their top four year. The cost of parking is an even
volumes are up as a result of a Nevertheless, as the findings
concerns – this represents a very more serious issue: almost a fifth
number of factors including the highlighted later in this report
substantial rise on the 18% recorded (18%) now say this is a top-four
ongoing falls in the price of fuel, will show, there are still high levels
in 2015. Meanwhile, 7% named high concern compared with one in eight
increases in wages making motoring of awareness – if not outright
levels of traffic and resulting delays (12%) in 2015.
more affordable, and general concern – of these matters among
as their number-one concern
economic prosperity increasing It is worth noting also that the Britain’s motorists.
compared with 5% last year.
commercial vehicle traffic. environmental impact of vehicle
These views reflected Department use ranked very low on most
Given the rising level of concern
for Transport (DfT) estimates of motorists’ list of concerns, despite
about congestion, it comes as little
18%
traffic volumes in 2015, which the relatively high level of media
surprise to learn that motorists
showed a 1.6% increase on the coverage of such issues over the
report they are also facing greater
previous year to a total of 317bn last 12 months. Just 7% named
difficulties in parking. One in seven
vehicle miles12. The DfT also found environmental impact as a top-
four concern, while the same of motorists say the cost of
parking is now one of their
proportion are worried about the top four concerns
accuracy of fuel efficiency and
12. w
ww.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/524267/road-traffic-estimates-gb-2015-
summary-factsheet.pdf
28 29RAC Report on Motoring 2016 2.0 Road safety
2.0
Road
safety
The dangers posed by the illegal
and irresponsible behaviour of
other drivers have become one
of UK motorists’ most pressing
concerns, according to the 2016
Report on Motoring. In particular,
the use of handheld mobile phones,
whether for calls, text messages or
internet access, is now viewed as a
significant threat to road safety. >
Page 32 60 Page 38 Page 42
A rise in phone fears Pushing the limits Drink and drug-driving
30RAC Report on Motoring 2016 2.0 Road safety
2.0 Road safety
In more general terms, there is 2.1 A rise in phone fears Motorists’ attitudes to handheld mobile
now a higher level of concern Motorists are particularly concerned
about traffic law-breaking, such about other drivers using handheld phone use while driving
as speeding or jumping red lights. mobile phones while in charge of their
The RAC’s research suggests this vehicles – and these levels of concern
could be, at least in part, due to have risen dramatically since the 2015
a decline in the numbers of roads Report on Motoring was published.
policing officers in recent years, Last year just over a third (34%) said
with more motorists taking the that use of a handheld phone for
view that they are increasingly talking, texting or internet access admitted to using
48%
likely to ‘get away with it’. was one of their top four concerns. their phone at the
In 2016, the figure has risen to 41%. wheel to make or
Concern about other people driving receive calls while
under the influence of alcohol has This year 13% of those questioned in stationary traffic
fallen to some degree, even though said phone use by others was their
the proportion of motorists who number-one concern, up from 10% in
admit to drink-driving appears 2015, and second only to the condition admitted to using
31%
to have increased over the past and maintenance of local roads as their phone to
12 months. And while there has this year’s most common chief make or receive
been no significant rise in drivers’ concern (cited by 14% of motorists). calls while driving
tendency to break 30mph and
It is difficult to say to what extent the
70mph speed limits since the 2015
distractions from handheld mobile
Report was published, there is a
phone use cause accidents, or said they have used
clear long-term trend towards
14%
whether this problem has become their smartphones
increased levels of speeding both
more acute, but it is likely that official to take photos or
on 50mph/60mph country roads
statistics understate the problem. video while driving
and in urban 20mph zones.
think it is acceptable
20% to check social
media while sitting
in traffic
32 33RAC Report on Motoring 2016 2.0 Road safety
2.0 Road safety
Despite this high level of concern, Almost half of drivers (49%) have
a significant minority of motorists done so in the past year, while 46%
do admit to using handheld phones admit to having checked texts, emails
to make or receive calls while or social media while stationary.
driving. Almost a third (31%) have
The idea that it is acceptable to
done so at least once in the past
use a phone while stuck in traffic
12 months: 15% say they rarely do
or queuing at a set of lights, for
so, 10% say they use their phones
example, seems to be gaining
in this way only sometimes, while
currency. A fifth of motorists (20%)
6% admit using handheld phones
say they agree with the statement
at the wheel most or all of the time.
‘It is safe to text or check social
Motorists are much more likely to media on your phone when
use their handheld phones while stationary’, up from 17% in 2015.
sitting in stationary traffic with their
And equally worryingly, taking
engines on, despite the fact that this
phone calls on a handheld phone
is also against the law.
while driving is unacceptable to
fewer motorists this year; only
78% thought taking a quick call
was unacceptable, down from
83% 12 months ago.
As for the reasons given for using a
handheld phone while driving, 23%
say ‘It was an emergency’, while
21% did so to obtain information
46%
needed for their journeys; 20%
made a call because ‘It could have
been an emergency’. “We surveyed 7,000 drivers and 95% of them rated
of people admit their own driving as ‘good’ or ‘very good’ and it
to having checked was everybody else on the road that they were
texts, emails or worried about. This ties into the concern about
78%
social media while
stationary
road safety where people think, ‘it’s not me; it’s
everybody else’.”
SARAH SILLARS
Chief Executive
of motorists think taking quick
IAM RoadSmart
phone calls on a handheld phone
while driving is unacceptable
34 35RAC Report on Motoring 2016 RAC call to action: 2.0 Road safety
Road safety: see page 88
2.0 Road safety
Figures for other types of phone statistics and accidents attributable Driver distractions
40%
use while in control of a moving to such distractions are all too often
vehicle are particularly alarming: simply attributed to ‘driver error’. say they have actually
26% admit they have checked used their phones to take
A fifth (18%) of drivers cited being
messages while driving in the last pictures or record videos
distracted by their mobile ringing, while at the wheel
12 months, while 19% have written
while 11% say using their mobile of motorists cited admit they have
and sent texts, emails or social tiredness as one of their checked messages
is a distraction. Only one in six
media updates, despite the huge top five distractions while driving in the
motorists (16%) claim that they
14%
distractions involved. Finally, one last 12 months
don’t get distracted while driving.
in seven motorists (14%) say they
have actually used their phones to While concerns over the behaviour
26%
take pictures or record videos while of other drivers have grown,
at the wheel. more people think that the roads
themselves are safer now than in
The 2016 Report on Motoring has
the past (46% against 42% in 2015),
also looked at the wider distractions
and almost two-thirds (63%) believe
reported by drivers. The most
that driver-assistance technologies,
46%
common is tiredness, cited by 40%
18%
of motorists as one of their top five
which are increasingly common in HANDHELD
the latest generations of vehicles,
distractions, followed by passengers
are making driving safer. And not MOBILE PHONE
talking (39%) and ’something
interesting happening outside the
surprisingly, 84% of motorists agree USE
that cars are safer than they used
car’ (37%). Such distractions, of drivers cited being of motorists think that the
to be (86% in 2015).
however, rarely appear in casualty
19%
distracted by their roads themselves are safer
mobile ringing now than in the past
“It is interesting to see that tiredness is cited as of drivers have written
the number-one distraction for drivers. One of and sent texts, emails or
social media updates
the key reasons that people pull off into service
areas is just to have a bit of a break.
But there are issues concerning the limits put on how long
motorists can stay in service areas. If you put the seat back
and get your head down for a couple of hours, then that is
the responsible thing to do, and you don’t expect someone
to come along and slap a charge on you as a result.”
THEO DE PENCIER
Non-executive Board Member
Transport Focus
36 37RAC Report on Motoring 2016 2.0 Road safety
2.0 Road safety
2.2 Pushing the limits A greater propensity to speed
There has been no significant on country roads is particularly
change in the number of motorists worrying given that they are
who admit to speeding in 2016 where the majority of fatal
overall. But this year’s research accidents occur13.
points to a longer term trend for
According to Department for
drivers to increasingly exceed limits
Transport statistics published
both on country roads – where
in June 2016, 51% of fatal
limits may be 50mph or 60mph
casualties occurred on ‘non-
– and in the growing number of
built-up roads’ in 2015, compared
urban 20mph zones.
with 43% on roads in built-up
Among all drivers, there has been areas and 6% on motorways.
an increase in concern regarding
Overall, however, the DfT figures
51%
motorists who break traffic laws:
showed a welcome fall in the overall
this is a top-four concern for 23%
number of casualties last year,
of those questioned, up from 19%
which is particularly good news
in 2015.
given the increase recorded in 2014. of fatalities occurred on
There has been no change in the ‘non-built-up roads’ in 2015
The fact that more drivers say
proportion of motorists who say they
they exceed the limit on 20mph
frequently or occasionally break the
48%
roads can be explained in part at
speed limits on motorways (70%)
or on 30mph urban roads (44%).
But over the past five years, the
least by the fact that the number
of 20mph zones is thought to have 60
increased significantly over recent
number who admit they speed on
years. In some areas, local of motorists admit they speed
country roads has grown from 38% on country roads
authorities are applying 20mph
to 48% (up from 46% in 2015), while
limits to busy through-routes
the figure for 20mph roads has risen
where users believe they can
from 38% in 2011 to 46% this year
safely travel at higher speeds.
(44% in 2015).
13. www.gov.uk/government/statistics/reported-road-casualties-in-great-britain-main-results-2015
38 39RAC Report on Motoring 2016 RAC call to action: 2.0 Road safety
Road safety: see page 88
2.0 Road safety
There is no official record of the 39% say it is acceptable to travel at
number or extent of 20mph zones 80mph on the motorway, while 23%
which have been introduced by local say it is OK to do 25mph in a 20mph
authorities in the UK, although the zone, and 14% say it is acceptable to
DfT says it is now ‘considering the drive at 40mph on a 30mph road.
best way’ to measure the growth of
The fall in the number of roads
such zones14.
policing officers may have had some
There is less acceptance of 20mph impact on motorists’ willingness to
limits among motorists than there break the speed limit. Government
is of 30mph limits. Two-fifths (41%) figures show that the total number of
of drivers think the limit in 20mph dedicated roads police in England and
areas should be higher (33% in Wales fell by 27% between 2010 and
2015), compared with only 22% who 201515 from 5,338 to 3,901. The 2016
take the same view of 30mph areas Report on Motoring found that 27%
(16% in 2015). of drivers agree with the statement
‘I don’t think I am very likely to get
At the same time, a majority of
caught if I break most motoring laws’,
motorists (66%) still believe the
up from 24% in 2015. A clear majority
70mph motorway limit should be
(61% compared with 62% in 2015)
raised to at least 80mph, a finding
believe there are not enough police
that has emerged from research for
on the roads enforcing driving laws.
the Report every year since 2010.
This year’s Report shows little
change in motorists’ views of
the acceptability of speeding:
“In my view, the reason why an increasing number
of motorists say they exceed the 20mph limit is
Number of dedicated roads policing that initially they understood why these zones
were put in place. But now we have a proliferation
officers in England and Wales
of them and many drivers don’t understand why
and so are less inclined to comply. For example,
2010 2015 in some areas, 20mph limits are being imposed
5,338 3,901
on major through-routes.”
DAVID BIZLEY
Chief Engineer
RAC
14. w ww.gov.uk/government/statistics/reported-road-casualties-in-great-britain-main-results-2015
15. www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-question/
Commons/2015-01-28/222445/
40 41RAC Report on Motoring 2016 2.0 Road safety
2.0 Road safety
2.3 Drink and drug-driving
Drink-driving remains a significant
The rate in Scotland is lower than
the UK average, and this may be
The debate about whether England and Wales
issue of concern for motorists in due to the fact that there has been should reduce the limit to 50mg/100ml from the
the UK, but this year has seen a a lower blood-alcohol limit than the current 80mg/100ml level is ongoing.
surprising fall in the number that rest of the UK in force north of the
cite it as one of their top four border since December 2014.
biggest concerns, from 29% in 2015
22% 6%
The debate about whether England
to 22%. Similarly, 12 months ago
and Wales should reduce the limit
9% of motorists said drink-driving
to 50mg/100ml from the current
was their top concern but this has
80mg/100ml level is ongoing.
dropped to 5%. It is possible that
Earlier this year, the Department for of motorists cite of people admit to having driven
this fall is attributable to a lower drink‑driving as one of while over the limit shortly after
Transport said that there were no
level of press coverage of accidents their top four concerns drinking over the past year
plans to review the law as it stands16.
arising from drink-driving and a
targeted approach by the THINK! Instead ministers said they
campaign that restricts advertising viewed ‘rigorous enforcement
to those times of the year, primarily and serious penalties’ as a more
in December, when the risk is effective deterrent.
perceived to be greatest.
In Northern Ireland, however,
Nevertheless, the Report does a 50mg/100ml limit is to be
show a small rise in the number of introduced in 2018, with even
people who admit to having driven tougher restrictions on
while over the limit over the past professional and learner drivers.
year: 6% say they have done so
shortly after drinking, up from 4%
2%
in 2015, while 2% say they have got
behind the wheel the morning after
drinking despite thinking they were
still over the limit (1% in 2015).
of motorists say they have got
As previous statistics have shown, it behind the wheel the morning
after drinking believing they
is people under the age of 45 who are were over the limit
most likely to admit to drink-driving.
16. www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-35530352
42 43RAC Report on Motoring 2016 RAC call to action: 2.0 Road safety
Road safety: see page 88
2.0 Road safety
The 2016 Report on Motoring once prescription medication: 7% say
again shows strong support among they have done so in the past 12
motorists for a lower drink-drive months compared with 6% in 2015.
limit across the whole of the UK with
There is some evidence to suggest
57% in favour. More specifically, 36%
that of those who have driven after
think it should be 50mg/100ml and
taking class A, B or C drugs, more
21% think it should be 20mg/100ml.
than two-thirds are under 35.
Opinion is split over whether a But of those who have driven with
lower UK-wide limit of 50mg/100ml banned prescription drugs in their
would be effective in deterring system* the age profile is a little
drink-drivers. Two-fifths (40%) different, with 43% in the 35 or
think it would help, against 37% over category, 40% aged between
who don’t. Interestingly, 60% of 25 and 34, and 17% under 25.
Scottish motorists think a
reduction would be effective,
which is perhaps a reflection of
40%
their positive experience since the
law was changed two years ago.
Among those who think a lower
limit will not have an impact, of motorists think
two-thirds (66%) say this is because a lower drink-drive
they do not expect a change in the limit of 50mg/100ml
would help deter
law to deter habitual drink-drivers. drink-drivers
There was little change in the
percentage of motorists who admit
to driving under the influence “It would be a poor argument to call for a
either of illegal drugs or banned reduction in the drink-drive limit just because
others have done it, but there is now plenty of
data to show that a change could save lives
43%
– our own research estimated that a cut could
save around 25 lives a year.”
STEVE GOODING
of those who have driven with Director
banned prescription drugs in RAC Foundation
their system* are aged 35 or over
*Small research sample
44 45RAC Report on Motoring 2016 3.0 The state of our roads
3.0
The
state of
our roads
The poor condition and lack of
adequate maintenance of local
roads remains the issue of
biggest concern among drivers,
this year’s Report on Motoring
has found. But concerns appear
to be worsening, with 14% citing
local roads as their top concern,
up from 10% in 2015. >
Page 48 Page 54 Page 58
Ongoing problems Congestion and Incident response and
46 with local roads parking difficulties variable message signsRAC Report on Motoring 2016 3.0 The state of our roads
3.0 The state of our roads
Motorists are more sanguine
about the state of major roads and
Just over half of drivers (51%
compared with 50% in 2015) say
Condition of motorways and local roads
51%
motorways, but with an increase in the condition of the roads in their
traffic volumes recorded over the area has deteriorated over the
past 12 months, it is no surprise past 12 months, overwhelmingly
that congestion and the availability as a result of potholes (cited by 97%
of parking have become more of respondents). However, roadside
significant concerns. litter (25%) and poor grass and/or
foliage maintenance (20%) are also say the condition of the local roads has deteriorated over the past 12 months
And while there is general
61%
named by many as problems.
agreement that the authorities think the condition of
are doing their best to minimise Only 9% of motorists think that motorways and dual
14%
the delays caused by accidents, local roads have improved since carriageways has stayed
more could be done to keep 2015 – this represents a very small the same since 2015
9%
motorists informed about the drop from last year’s 10% who
of motorists think
impact of major incidents. thought the condition of local that local roads have
roads had improved over the actually improved
3.1 Ongoing problems with
previous 12 months. In terms of since 2015
97%
local roads
demographics, older drivers and
The condition and maintenance of those who said that the
those in rural locations are more
of local roads is the top concern condition of local roads is say the condition and maintenance
likely to think that the condition worse, said it’s due to
among the largest percentage
of motorists once again in 2016.
of roads has deteriorated. potholes and poor road surface of local roads is their top concern
Of those questioned, 14% say this By way of contrast, a majority
is their number-one concern, up of motorists (61%) think that the
from 10% last year. condition of the motorways and
dual carriageways they use has not
Almost four in 10 drivers (38%) say
changed over the past 12 months
the state of local roads is one of
(up from 58% in 2015). And only 7%
their top four concerns this year:
think they have improved against 9%
this also represents a sharp
who took this view last year, perhaps
increase on last year (30%).
indicating it is still too early for
motorists to see the benefits of the
Road Investment Strategy in terms of
the condition of the existing network.
48 49RAC Report on Motoring 2016 RAC call to action: 3.0 The state of our roads
The state of our roads: see page 90
3.0 The state of our roads RAC Pothole Index
Of the 28% who think the state This follows analysis from the The RAC has used its database of over 2 million breakdowns attended each
of major roads has declined, 83% Department for Transport which year to develop the RAC Pothole Index as an ongoing monitor of the state of
cite surface quality, including found that there was a backlog of the UK’s roads. The index uses the share of all breakdowns where damage
potholes, as one of the problems up to £8.6bn in spending on local from potholes, such as damaged shock absorbers, broken suspension
they face, although litter (28%), road maintenance19. springs and distorted wheels, is likely to have been a major contributor.
lane-marking visibility (24%) and
However, the latest independent
carriageway lighting (15%) are 4.0
findings from the Asphalt Industry
also issues.
Alliance (AIA) suggest the true 3.5
Concern about the state of local picture may be even more gloomy.
roads has grown despite some The organisation’s Annual Local 3.0
attempt by the Government to Authority Road Maintenance (ALARM) 2.5
increase expenditure on local report published in March 201620 found
road infrastructure. Ministers that, despite the commitment to extra 2.0
have promised to pump £6bn state funding, local authority highways
1.5
into local road maintenance departments in England claimed that
between 2015 and 202117 while funding has dropped by 16% on 1.0
in the March 2016 Budget, the average since last year. The report also
Government announced the said that the amount of investment 0.5
creation of a £50m-a-year Pothole needed to bring roads in England and
0
Action Fund to target the roads in Wales up to an acceptable level had
greatest need of repair18. remained just below £12 billion. 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
The share is averaged over the previous preventative maintenance. There
12 months to remove seasonal effects have been several extreme weather
and a correction is applied to take events over the last six years and the
“The lower support for the Government to
account of the overall improvement in Government has provided additional
prioritise investment in the maintenance of
vehicle reliability over time. funding to address the pothole
motorways and other major roads may simply damage that resulted.
reflect the fact that it’s the condition of local The index uses the share at the start
roads that worries respondents, because they of 2006 as a benchmark and the value However, the index shows that while
have deteriorated at such a rapid pace.” of the index is therefore a measure of this funding has addressed the
how likely a motorist’s vehicle is to immediate effects of the bad weather,
STEVE GOODING suffer pothole damage compared to it has been insufficient to tackle the
Director
RAC Foundation the start of 2006. Thus an index of 1.2 underlying deterioration that occurred
would mean the likelihood of pothole prior to 2010. Going forward, the RAC
damage had increased by 20%. will publish the index quarterly.
The index shows that there was a Motorists wanting to report a pothole
steady deterioration in the condition should visit the RAC website or
17. ww.gov.uk/government/news/6-billion-funding-to-tackle-potholes-and-improve-local-roads
w of roads between 2005 and 2010 as download the free RAC Report
18. www.gov.uk/government/news/cash-for-councils-to-fill-almost-1-million-potholes
highways authorities’ budgets were Pothole mobile app for their iPhone
19. www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/443898/Productivity_Plan_web.pdf
20. www.asphaltindustryalliance.com/images/library/files/ALARM%202016/ALARM_survey_2016_full_report.pdf tightened and many cut back on or Android smartphone.
50 51You can also read
