Press Watch: Expense 'does not deter drivers'

Date submitted: 8 August 2008

Contrary to a number of studies which show that the effect of rising petrol prices is seeing significant reductions in traffic, a poll of driver's attitudes conducted by e-sure found that many drivers would rather pay more to drive than use public transport. Several transport practicioners have commented that what people say about their behaviour in surveys and what they actually do in practice are often very different, as worldwide driver habits do appear to be changing. However according to the poll, nearly half of motorists would stick to car travel even if petrol prices rose significantly, the survey suggests.

Some 47% of drivers surveyed by the insurance firm would not consider using public transport instead, regardless of the expense of petrol.

But three-quarters of the 1,082 drivers polled said they were now worried more than ever about rising fuel costs.

The current average cost per litre of petrol stands at 114.7p, while diesel is 127.6p.

Most drivers said the price of petrol would have to reach 175p a litre before they considered altering driving habits.

And some 17% of those surveyed revealed that they would be prepared to pay more than £2 a litre at the pumps in order to stay on the road.

Meanwhile, younger drivers revealed that the key price for a possible change of transport plans would be 165p a litre.

However, pump prices would have to rise to 181p for drivers aged 35-54 to switch to public transport.

Mike Pickard, of esure, said: "British motorists are used to the convenience of driving their own cars and are clearly prepared to pay the price, however high, in order to stay on the road and keep their freedom.

"Petrol is seen as a commodity that people are just not prepared to give up."

More Information: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7548609.stm