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At a time when millions of tourists travel the highways
of the continent in search of holidays, a survey by
insurance group, AXA-Winterthur, provides an overview of
how the motorists behave in the countries they visit.
The survey, which collected the views of more than 8,000
drivers from ten European countries (Spain, France,
Germany, Italy, Portugal, Belgium, Luxembourg,
Switzerland, United Kingdom and Ireland) concerning
driving habits, has found that Germany has the most
skilled drivers, followed by Switzerland and then the
United Kingdom. Also, none of the countries that
participated in the study agree that Spain deserves to
be among the three countries where most of Europe leads.
Don’t Mention the Autobahn
Germany, Switzerland and the United Kingdom are
considered to be the countries with the best drivers.
The Germans were chosen as the most skilful by all
participants, except by those in England, Ireland,
Switzerland and Luxembourg, who put them in second
place.
Spain on the Red List
Only one in three Spanish motorists knows the legal
limit for alcohol while driving. Communications
Director of AXA-Winterthur Josep Alfonso points out that
speeding is the most serious offence committed in Spain,
followed by parking illegally and driving without a seat
belt.
Spain, the survey has also found, is the country with
the worst knowledge of the speed limit, with only 42%
being professing awareness, compared with that of 94% of
the Swiss. One in four Spanish drivers has admitted to
driving at speeds of up to 150 kilometres per hour, well
above the 120 klm permitted by law. Nearly half have
admitted to driving faster than the 65 klm stipulated in
urban areas. Slightly ahead of Spain with regard to
knowledge of the speed limit is France with 45%, Italy
with 51% and the United Kingdom with 60%.
Road Safety
Swiss drivers are also those who report feeling safest
on their roads. This is due in part to the good
condition of the countries infrastructure, clear sign
posts, and also a good respect overall for the speed
limit. In Switzerland, 94% of drivers know the speed
limit, followed by 87% from Luxembourg and 82% with
Germany and Belgium.
Reckless Behaviour
Among the 10 behaviours considered dangerous or reckless
driving, Ireland ranks first, followed by United Kingdom
and Germany. Spanish drivers are considered to be the
most dangerous, especially when it comes to respecting a
safe distance between cars, wearing seatbelts and
keeping in lane.
Swisslatin / adapted by Stephen Hinch
(23.07.2009) |
