Nearly half of motorists are cutting back on journeys

Drivers in rural areas shown to be less likely to reduce car use

A new survey by RAC has shown that 48 per cent of motorists are cutting back on journeys for financial reasons.

Those living in rural areas were shown to be less likely to reduce car use because of limited transport alternatives.

Four out of ten rural drivers and 32 per cent of urban ones said they were cutting back on short journeys, while 34 per cent of rural drivers and 23 per cent of urban ones were reducing long trips.

The survey also revealed widespread concern over the state of the UK's roads. 92 per cent of those surveyed said the condition of local roads had deteriorated in the last 12 months.

In addition, 84 per cent thought road improvements should take priority over "big, expensive schemes" such as the Government's proposed HS2 high-speed rail project.

Nearly 25 per cent were concerned at preparedness for bad winter weather, while 75 per cent of wanted a speed limit of more than 70mph on motorways. But only 16 per cent backed higher limits on 30mph roads.

RAC motoring strategist Adrian Tink said: "UK drivers want action from the Government. They already pay the highest duty and tax on fuel in Europe."

"At the very least, we are calling for fuel duty to be frozen and scheduled inflationary rises to be scrapped."

Further information:
RAC