Nervous drivers steering clear of motorways

Millions of Brits admit to feeling anxious when driving on motorways, according to new research.

A poll of 2,000 motorists by Nissan has found 23% are uncomfortable on multi-lane highways.

More than half (55%) of drivers say they’re nervous when hemmed in between cars and lorries on motorways, while 43 per cent cited a dislike of overtaking lorries or big vehicles.

The survey also found 39% of drivers feel scared, nervous, uneasy or uncertain behind the wheel in general.

Nissan conducted the study to highlight ProPILOT, the car giant’s advanced driver assistance technology, which helps with steering, acceleration and braking.

Available on both the UK’s best-selling crossover, the Nissan Qashqai, and the UK’s most popular electric car, the Nissan Leaf, ProPILOT maintains the vehicle’s speed and a safe distance from the vehicle in front. It works in a single lane on highways, and is optimised for low-speed congestion and high-speed cruising.

“Modern vehicle technologies, such as those developed under Nissan Intelligent Mobility, can play a key role in supporting a positive driver experience,” said Alex Smith, managing director, Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd.

“It’s encouraging that a large proportion of drivers recognise the impact these can have on their confidence at the wheel.”

Motorway driving is the second biggest skill motorists feel they lack confidence in (21%), beaten only by the fear of parking (27%).

Around half of drivers (47%) also admitted they have taken a smaller road to avoid larger, busier routes, while one in 20 are so nervous they have taken a detour of as much as 26 miles.

Almost one-in-two motorists surveyed believe that driver assistance technologies, such as Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning and Intelligent Cruise Control, either would help or do help make them more confident.