Research findings, insurance statistics and possibly your own experience highlights gender differences in driving caused by a mix of biological, psychological, social and even evolutionary factors.
A UK-based study of 1, 500 drivers in 2018 revealed that women are, in fact, better drivers.
In the 14 aspects of driving that were assessed, women scored significantly better – 23.6 points out of a possible 30, while men only scored 19.8 points. Women seemed to be more courteous drivers with 39% always polite to other drivers, compared to just 28% of men.
The study showed that 45% of men approached hazards too fast, compared with only 25% of women, while only 44% of men stopped at amber lights compared to 85% of women. Just 1% of women, but 14% of men, cut into traffic dangerously, and just 4% of women but 27% of men drove too close to the vehicle in front of them.
ACTIVITY
|
MEN
|
WOMEN
|
Appropriate speed approaching hazards
|
55%
|
75%
|
Stopping safely at amber traffic lights
|
44%
|
85%
|
Negative impact on other drivers
|
73%
|
54%
|
Adequate indication
|
82%
|
96%
|
Adequate use of mirrors
|
46%
|
79%
|
Effective observation (e.g. checking blind spot)
|
82%
|
71%
|
Driving too close to the vehicle in front
|
27%
|
4%
|
Staying within the speed limit
|
86%
|
89%
|
Appropriate speed for the situation
|
64%
|
64%
|
Steering / Control of the vehicle
|
100%
|
96%
|
Cutting corners when turning
|
68%
|
43%
|
Talking or texting on the phone while driving
|
24%
|
16%
|
Cutting dangerously in to traffic
|
14%
|
1%
|
Causing an obstruction on the road
|
25%
|
16%
|
Total co-efficient (max 30)
|
19.8
|
23.6
|
According to another gender driving study in the USA, although men are more confident in their driving abilities, they’re more likely to take risks when driving. They have a greater likelihood to speed, and drink and drive, and the distances they drive is generally higher compared to female drivers. This puts them at a 77% higher risk of dying in a car accident.
Research like this costs men more than just a little bit of ego; it also hits them directly in their wallet. It’s no secret that female drivers with the same driving experience, driving the same car, will pay less for car insurance premiums.
So come on ladies, give us a call on 044 382 0550 to see if we can match, or even better your current premium.
* This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or financial advice.