A concerning number of British drivers lack basic knowledge on laws surrounding motorway driving, a study has found.
Co-op Insurance surveyed 1,000 motorists in September and found that 32 per cent had no clue what the speed limit on motorways is.
It was also revealed that 31 per cent of respondents believed you had to be aged 18 or older to drive on the motorway, while four per cent thought there was a minimum age of 21.
Adding to the list of concerning findings was the fact that 63 per cent of those interviewed believed lorries and vehicles towing trailers can use the right-hand lane, despite the fact that this is illegal.
Nick Ansley, head of motor at Co-op Insurance, said: “It’s worrying that a third of our drivers don’t know what speed they should be driving on UK motorways and that there is confusion among so many drivers about what age you need to be in order to drive on a motorway.
“Our study highlights further why it’s so important that learners are educated when learning to drive on motorways to ensure that they – and other motorists – are safe on motorways.”
A spokesperson for road safety charity Brake added: “Motorway driving can often be a daunting task, especially for those who have recently passed their test.
“It’s important that people who choose to drive on motorways feel confident and able to do so safely.
“The introduction of motorway driving lessons is a welcome step, but these statistics clearly highlight that more can be done to educate drivers and keep them safe on our motorways.”
Responding to the survey’s findings, Lesley Young, chief driving examiner at the DVSA, said: “Motorists should be aware of the code and we publish a guide for motorway driving, as well as regular advice on social media, to help them.
“From next year, learner drivers will be able to take driving lessons on motorways accompanied by a fully qualified instructor. This will equip them with a wider range of experience and knowledge, helping improve road safety.”
