New analysis highlights dangerous refuelling habits amongst UK drivers – with value, comfort, and lack of know-how all enjoying a component.
A current examine from Uswitch automotive insurance coverage has revealed that almost half of UK motorists (49%) delay refuelling their autos till their gasoline tank is lower than 1 / 4 full – with 22% pushing it to the restrict and ready till the warning mild comes on.
As well as, virtually two in 5 (39%) drivers admit they don’t fill their tank utterly after they do cease for gasoline. For a lot of, the explanations are monetary: 38% say they solely finances for speedy driving wants, whereas 33% say they merely can’t afford a full tank. Different drivers cite considerations about carrying further weight (27%) or not needing a full tank because of rare driving (26%).
A Dangerous Technique
Regardless of the potential risks, many drivers stay unaware of the dangers related to persistently driving on low gasoline. In keeping with the survey:
- 41% didn’t know sediment or particles may construct up within the gasoline tank
- 51% have been unaware this might harm the gasoline pump and filter
- 37% didn’t realise low gasoline will increase the danger of breaking down
Alarmingly, 9% weren’t conscious of any damaging penalties in any respect
Nearly one in 5 (18%) have skilled a breakdown because of working out of gasoline, and in 2022 alone, the AA attended over 10,500 such incidents throughout the UK.
Comfort Over Price
Regardless of rising gasoline costs – with unleaded petrol now averaging 139.42p per litre and diesel at 146.58p – solely 17% of drivers actively search out the most cost effective filling stations. As a substitute, 36% go to their native forecourt and 21% select the closest one on the time, prioritising comfort over value.
With over half (56%) of UK adults reporting an increase in the price of dwelling this 12 months, it’s little shock that drivers are pondering fastidiously about how a lot they spend on the pump. However these habits might be storing up bother.
Ideas for ADIs and Their Pupils
Leoni Moninska, automotive insurance coverage skilled at Uswitch, presents some sensible steering to keep away from fuel-related points:
“Be sure to have sufficient gasoline earlier than any journey,” she advises. “It is a primary requirement below The Freeway Code (Rule 97) and helps keep away from emergencies. Attempt to not let your tank drop under 1 / 4.”
Within the occasion of a fuel-related breakdown, she urges drivers to prioritise security: “Transfer to a protected location, change on hazard lights, and by no means go away your car in a harmful place – this might end in an FPN, three penalty factors and a £100 high quality.”
She additionally suggests utilizing on-line instruments to search out the most cost effective native gasoline costs, driving extra easily to cut back gasoline use, and guaranteeing the car is well-maintained for optimum effectivity.
A Teachable Second
For Authorised Driving Instructors (ADIs), this analysis presents a helpful alternative to lift consciousness amongst pupils about accountable car upkeep and journey planning. Understanding the dangers of driving on low gasoline – and the straightforward methods to save lots of on the pump – kinds an necessary a part of growing protected, economical drivers.
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