British Drivers Envious of European Roads, RAC Study Reveals

Are British drivers suffering from road envy? A recent study by RAC Europe suggests that they might be. The research reveals that a majority of motorists in the UK believe that roads across Europe are smoother and have fewer potholes compared to the bumpy and battered tarmac they are used to navigating at home.

According to the study, 62 per cent of British drivers think that local roads in Europe are in better condition, while 57 per cent believe that European motorways are in much better shape with fewer potholes. Only a small percentage of drivers feel that the UK’s roads can compete with those on the continent, highlighting a significant disparity in road quality.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom for British drivers. The study also found that UK drivers excel in understanding road signs, with 30 per cent finding UK signage easier to decipher compared to Europe’s multilingual roadways. Despite this small victory, a larger group still feels that there is little difference between the two.

RAC Europe spokesman Rod Dennis expressed concern over the findings, questioning why the UK’s roads are lagging behind those in other European countries. He emphasized the importance of road quality for safety, especially on high-speed motorways that carry heavy traffic.

The study also uncovered some worrying habits of UK drivers before heading abroad. A significant number of drivers admitted to neglecting basic car maintenance tasks such as checking coolant levels and oil before embarking on a journey. While many drivers are diligent about checking tyre pressure and tread, there is still room for improvement, with a notable percentage neglecting tyre condition checks altogether.

Overall, the study sheds light on the road conditions in the UK compared to Europe and highlights the need for better infrastructure and maintenance to ensure the safety and comfort of British drivers. It serves as a reminder for all motorists to prioritize regular car maintenance and safety checks before hitting the road, both at home and abroad.