A ‘green lining’… how soaring fuel costs have driven motorists to greener forms of transport

• A survey commissioned by IAM RoadSmart has revealed that one in three (33 per cent) motorists have decided to walk more, as fuel prices rise again
• 17 per cent of respondents stated that they use public transport on a more regular basis, while 7 per cent answered that they have bought a bicycle or used it more frequently
• Over a third (38 per cent) of people have changed their driving style to drive more economically

As UK motorists face another surge in fuel costs, it could be having an unexpected positive impact on promoting greener forms of transport.

That’s according to research commissioned by the UK’s leading independent road safety charity, IAM RoadSmart, who surveyed 1,004 motorists on what changes they have made as a result of rising fuel costs.

Of those surveyed, one in three (33 per cent) stated that they have decided to walk more, 17 per cent said that they have used public transport on a more regular basis, while 7 per cent answered that they have bought a bicycle or used it more frequently. 

Neil Greig, Director of Policy and Research at IAM RoadSmart, commented: “As fuel prices rise again, it is yet another added expenditure for households up and down the country amid the deepening cost of living crisis. 

“However, our research demonstrates that there has been an unexpected ‘green lining’ to the rising cost of fuel, as an increasing number of motorists opt for more environmentally-friendly forms of transport.”

But Neil also advised that the increase in pedestrians on Britain’s busy shared streets will change the dynamics on Britain’s roads: “It is crucial to be mindful of the safety of all road users, especially those who will be more vulnerable to injury in the case of a collision.

“Adhering to the ‘hierarchy of road users’ Highway Code rule, which dictates that road users such as cyclists and pedestrians are at greater risk from road traffic, and therefore motorists should possess the greatest responsibility to minimise harm, will play a critical role in helping Britain adapt to these changes.”

Meanwhile, those who have decided not to ditch the car entirely have also made greener changes to the way they drive, with 38 per cent of respondents stating that they have tried to drive more economically, and 19 per cent disclosing that they have taken extra care to stick to the speed limits.

Neil added: “For many, ‘hanging up the keys’ is simply not an option, and the role of owning a car, in terms of personal mobility and keeping Britain moving, cannot be understated. In such cases, we would encourage motorists to follow those who have decided to drive more economically and reduce their speed, which will not only help keep costs down, but also keep Britain’s roads as safe as they can be.”

To learn more about IAM RoadSmart, visit www.iamroadsmart.com.