According to new research from road safety charity Iam RoadSmart, which surveyed 1,004 motorists, soaring fuel prices could help to promote more sustainable and active travel options.
The charity claims that, of those surveyed, one in three (33%) have been walking more often, 17% said that they have used public transport more regularly, while 7% answered said they either bought a bicycle or used an existing one more frequently.
Neil Greig, director of policy and research at Iam RoadSmart, said: “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.
“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.”
What’s more, those who have continued relying on cars have reportedly made more sustainable changes to the way they drive, with 38% of those surveyed saying they have tried to drive more economically and 19% saying they have made better efforts to stick to speed limits.
Greig has also advised that this increase in pedestrians on roads and streets means that motorists need to be extra mindful of the safety of all road users, especially those who are more vulnerable.
