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London - Children shouting/crying from the rear, passengers adjusting buttons... What's your biggest pet peeve as a driver?
The UK Motor Ombudsman, has found that nearly two-fifths (38%) of drivers deem the unwanted comments of back-seat drivers to be the main cause of in-car arguments.
Its poll of more than 1500 motorists revealed the most likely irritations to provoke a dispute with their fellow passengers.
Biggest cause of arguments: List by Motor Ombudsman
38% - Unwanted back-seat driving
18% - Children shouting, crying and fighting.
17% - Passengers adjusting buttons and dials.
14% - Changing the radio station or music.
13% - Leaving rubbish in the car.
In-car arguments
To diffuse the situation, more than half (53%) of respondents whom have had an argument with passengers while driving, said that they adopt a direct and firm approach for the behaviour to be nipped in the bud there and then.
Image: iStock
Conversely, almost a quarter (24%) of those questioned prefer a more “laissez-faire” approach by seeing if the situation improves prior to taking any action.
The majority (48%) of drivers who have argued, think resolving an in-car clash helps to reduce stress. A third equally cited that the most important reasons for bringing a dispute to a close were to avoid a repeat of the same arguments (33%), to make future journeys more relaxing by agreeing a compromise (33%), and to have improved relations with others (32%).
Drivers - what's your biggest pet peeve about passengers in your car? Email us
Letting off steam
In order to let off steam with someone that is impartial and independent of the disagreement, once out of the car, almost one in four (24%) share their side of the argument with their other half, whilst 10% prefer to impart their views of the dispute with friends.
Image: iStock
Bill Fennell, Chief Ombudsman and Managing Director of The Motor Ombudsman, said: “Being confined to a small space on a long journey can cause tension in the car. As with any differences of opinion, whether with family or a business, it is important for all parties involved to take the time to try to conclude any issues in a cool and constructive way to help prevent the problems from re-occurring.
"However, just as importantly, the campaign is highlighting that there is help out there for motorists should there be a problem during the purchase, servicing or repair of a car that they haven’t been able to sort out directly with their garage.”
