New study reveals TURNING RIGHT as the most dangerous manoeuvre on British roads
A recent study conducted by Forbes Advisor has shed light on the most dangerous manoeuvre for car drivers on British roads. The study analysed data from the Department for Transport's 2021 annual report on reported road casualties in Great Britain from 2012 to 2021, specifically focusing on the manoeuvres that resulted in the highest number of collisions for each type of vehicle.
Cars, being the most common type of vehicle on the road, had the highest number of collisions in each year from 2012 to 2021. Surprisingly, the manoeuvre that resulted in the most collisions for car drivers was turning right, with a staggering 186,009 recorded collisions. Slowing or stopping followed closely behind, causing 130,709 collisions in the same time period. The third most common cause of collisions for cars was being held up while waiting to go, with 112,755 recorded incidents.
Motorcycles, a popular choice for commuters, faced their highest number of collisions while overtaking a moving vehicle on the offside, with 14,324 recorded incidents. Slowing or stopping was the second most dangerous manoeuvre for motorcycle riders, resulting in 10,003 reported collisions. Going ahead on a left-hand bend came in third, with 8,992 recorded collisions.
Light goods vehicles, commonly used for deliveries, faced the most collisions while turning right, with 12,418 incidents recorded between 2012 and 2021. Slowing or stopping caused the next most collisions, with a total of 10,151. Additionally, light goods vehicles were involved in 7,266 collisions while parked, making it their third most frequent collision cause.
Pedal cycles, a popular choice for commuters and environmentally-conscious individuals, were involved in most collisions while turning right, with 10,070 such incidents reported from 2012 to 2021. Moving off resulted in the next most collisions, with 4,911 reported incidents. Going ahead on a right-hand bend came in third, with 4,643 recorded collisions.
This study provides valuable insights into the most dangerous manoeuvres on British roads for different types of vehicles. By identifying these high-risk situations, drivers can become more aware and take necessary precautions to avoid accidents and promote safer roads for everyone.
Kevin Pratt, car insurance spokesperson at Forbes Advisor, said: “Accidents will always happen, but it’s worth remembering that the vast majority are caused by human error. Drivers who are risk aware, cautious and focused on what they are doing can improve their chances of avoiding collisions.
“Modern cars are designed to make driving easier and safer, but the danger is that drivers can become complacent and distracted, perhaps reviewing a satnav screen or choosing what music to listen to instead of concentrating on the road and other traffic. And there are times when absolute focus is essential, whether it is turning right across oncoming traffic or bringing the vehicle to a safe stop.
“Anyone who can recognise and respond to high-risk situations will be a safer driver. Anyone who takes risks or doesn’t pay due care and attention will be a danger to themselves and to others.”
