New analysis highlights dangerous refuelling habits amongst UK drivers – with price, comfort, and lack of information all enjoying an element.
A latest examine from Uswitch automobile insurance coverage has revealed that just about half of UK motorists (49%) delay refuelling their automobiles till their gasoline tank is lower than 1 / 4 full – with 22% pushing it to the restrict and ready till the warning mild comes on.
As well as, virtually two in 5 (39%) drivers admit they don’t fill their tank fully once they do cease for gasoline. For a lot of, the explanations are monetary: 38% say they solely price range for quick 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 consequence 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 gasoline. In keeping with the survey:
- 41% didn’t know sediment or particles might construct up within the gasoline tank
- 51% have been unaware this might injury the gasoline pump and filter
- 37% didn’t realise low gasoline will increase the danger of breaking down
Alarmingly, 9% weren’t conscious of any detrimental penalties in any respect
Virtually one in 5 (18%) have skilled a breakdown as a consequence of operating out of gasoline, and in 2022 alone, the AA attended over 10,500 such incidents throughout the UK.
Comfort Over Value
Regardless of rising gasoline costs – with unleaded petrol now averaging 139.42p per litre and diesel at 146.58p – solely 17% of drivers actively search out 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 considering rigorously about how a lot they spend on the pump. However these habits may very well be storing up bother.
Suggestions for ADIs and Their Pupils
Leoni Moninska, automobile insurance coverage skilled at Uswitch, gives some sensible steering to keep away from fuel-related points:
“Ensure you have sufficient gasoline earlier than any journey,” she advises. “This can be a primary 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 secure location, change on hazard lights, and by no means depart your car in a harmful place – this might end in an FPN, three penalty factors and a £100 high quality.”
She additionally suggests utilizing on-line instruments to search out the most affordable native gasoline costs, driving extra easily to cut back gasoline use, and making certain the car is well-maintained for optimum effectivity.
A Teachable Second
For Accepted Driving Instructors (ADIs), this analysis gives a helpful alternative to boost consciousness amongst pupils about accountable car upkeep and journey planning. Understanding the dangers of driving on low gasoline – and the straightforward methods to avoid wasting on the pump – varieties an vital a part of growing secure, economical drivers.
You possibly can learn extra tales like this right here
