New driver research carried out for Continental Tyres in Britain has revealed that we are twice as likely to not let someone out at a junction if they are in a flash car because ‘they think they’re it’. Yet, the biggest reason why drivers will not let someone pull out is if they can see the other person at the wheel using their mobile phone.

The survey of 2,000 drivers revealed that more than a third admits they allow their assumptions to affect them behind the wheel, meaning they are intentionally more or less reckless as a result.

The survey also revealed that six in ten drivers get agitated by a sticker for a rival sports team or in support of a cause or organisation. It seems that motorists are not bothered about the prejudices made about their car. Over half expect to be stereotyped, though only one in seven admit it affects their choice of car.

ADVERTISEMENT

Occasionally it can count in our favour as the survey found that 27% of people make an effort to be courteous to people in the same make and model of car as them. Opinions are divided on hybrid and electric vehicles with one in three believing owners are right to consider the environment and an equal number describing them as ‘tree-huggers’ or ‘self-righteous’.

Tom Dennigan of Continental Tyres Ireland said: “Although this survey was carried out by my colleagues in the UK as part of our commitment to making driving safer, I think the survey results would be similar here in Ireland. The finding that motorists may adopt a more aggressive driving style based on the appearance or make and model of another motorist’s car is certainly shocking”.