On the road, many motorists think they are following the rules. However, studies reveal very common behaviors that can expose them to severe sanctions. And for good reason, these habits increase the risk of accidents.
Bad habits of motorists
Every year, SANEF, manager of French highways, publishes a detailed study on driver habits. This report is based on observations made on specific segments of its network.
And to guarantee reliable results, SANEF selects sections of motorway without any notable features that could influence behavior. This year, kilometer 72 of the A13, a three-lane section in open countryside, served as a reference.
Indeed, this famous approach allows us to better understand how motorists behave on the roads, far from urban areas or conditions that could have an impact on the data.
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The study then highlights behaviors which, despite awareness campaigns, persist. And the least we can say is that they endanger everyone's safety. Among these offenses, speeding remains one of the most common.
According to data, 42% of motorists drive above the authorized 130 km/h on motorways. Among them, 12% exceed 140 km/h, and 3% reach or exceed 150 km/h. These figures have not changed since 2019.
Please note that speeding constitutes an offense punishable by a fine of 1,500 euros for excesses the most important. Motorists can also lose six points on their driving license. But that's not all.
-Very common behaviors
Road Safety reminds that excessive speed remains one of the main causes of fatal accidents in France. This is also why she wants to make it a priority in prevention efforts.
In addition to speed, another worrying habit affects nearly one in two motorists. The study reveals that 36% of drivers do not do not move back into the right lane after overtaking. This behavior is even more common at night, where it reaches 57%.
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However, this bad habit remains an infraction of the Highway Code. The latter indicates that motorists must use the left lane only when overtaking. Then move back into the right lane as soon as possible.
People who ignore this rule can face a fine of 35 euros. The study also highlights other frequent violations. This is particularly the case of forgetting the indicators. On motorways, 28% of drivers do not use them to signal overtaking.
While 35% do not activate them to indicate their return to the right lane. These omissions also increase the risk of accidents on the roads. And for good reason, flashing lights allow other users to anticipate vehicle movements and react accordingly.
