It is quite likely that you have already encountered an inconsiderate motorist today. Perhaps you made a pit stop while en route to work. After fueling up your ride, you activated your blinker and attempted to make a right turn out of the gas station parking lot. However, alas, your initial attempt was thwarted when an approaching vehicle sped up instead of allowing you to merge onto the road.
Regardless of the route, we often find ourselves in the company of drivers who are seemingly oblivious to their surroundings or are downright hostile. It's also true that, at some point or another, we have all (perhaps unknowingly) fallen into one of these categories.
All of that said, there are motorists that make our commutes a little more pleasant. Chances are, these delightful creatures are driving vans, says Swinton Insurance. The U.K.-based insurer conducted a study of 2,000 drivers and found that van drivers "show unprecedented levels of courtesy."
The online survey revealed that van drivers are the most well-mannered of motorists, with 43 percent "frequently" giving way to others, compared to just 36 percent of car drivers. Swinton also found that van drivers were more inclined to "thank" their fellow road warriors. Thirty-one percent of insureds driving vans claimed to frequently express gratitude, compared to just 28 percent of car drivers.
"It's good to see that van drivers are breaking the stereotype of being the most aggressive motorists on the road," said Phil Moss, commercial vehicle manager at Swinton. "Common courtesy costs nothing and it's vital that all drivers remember that their actions behind the wheel can have a real impact on other road users."
Of those surveyed, 39 percent said they were "rarely" commended for being courteous. The title of rudest group of drivers -- at least in this sliver of a sampling -- went to the nation's youth, as a mere 9 percent of 18-24 year olds admitted to always giving way to oncoming traffic. Well, at least they are self-aware if not outwardly considerate.
© Arc, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to TMSalesOperations@arc-network.com. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.