Back-seat drivers cause the most in-car arguments

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Back-seat drivers cause the most in-car arguments

With the great summer getaway just around the corner, a YouGov survey has found that 38% of drivers regard the unwanted comments of back-seat drivers as the main cause of in-car arguments.

According to the poll, of more than 1,500 motorists, children shouting, crying and fighting is the second biggest cause of arguments on a journey (17%). Passengers adjusting buttons and dials, or changing the radio station or choice of music, and occupants leaving rubbish in the car (all 14%) were also some of the most likely irritations to provoke a dispute.

To diffuse the situation, 53% of people who have had an argument with passengers while driving said they adopt a direct and firm approach for the behaviour to be nipped in the bud. Conversely, 24% of those questioned prefer a more ‘laissez-faire’ approach by seeing if the situation improves before taking any action.

The majority (48%) of drivers who have argued think resolving an in-car clash helps to reduce stress. A third of people equally cited that the most important reasons for bringing a dispute to a close were to avoid a repeat of the same arguments, to make future journeys more relaxing by agreeing a compromise, and to have improved relations with others.

“Although holidays are an exciting time, being confined to a small space on a long journey can cause tension,” said Bill Fennell, Chief Ombudsman and MD of The Motor Ombudsman, which commissioned the survey. “As with any differences of opinion, whether family or business, it is important for all parties to take the time to try to conclude any issues in a cool and constructive way, to help prevent the problems from re-occurring.”

Added: 18 July 2017

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