A survey commissioned by Ford has revealed the UK’s university students may not be the smartest behind the wheel, with many admitting to bad driving habits.
Ford asked 2,313 young people about their driving habits and found that those studying at university are more likely to admit using their mobile phone at the wheel, use excessive speed, or drink drive compared to young drivers who left school at 16. The survey found 43 per cent of university students admitted sending texts, 38 per cent swiping through apps, 36 per cent taking phone calls, 60 per cent speeding, and 13 per cent drink-driving. Nearly half said they would be tempted to drive a car overloaded with friends, three quarters would be tempted to drive on little or no sleep, and more than a quarter would be tempted to get into a car driven by someone they knew had been drinking. Overall, almost a third of university students admitted they had been involved in a road accident, compared to just a quarter of non-university educated young drivers.
Ford – who offers free training for young drivers through its Ford Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) programme – commissioned the study to mark Freshers’ Week, when new undergraduates traditionally enjoy a party atmosphere to celebrate the start of university life.
“Getting to university is an incredible achievement and it is also where many of us make some of our strongest friendships. But we want to make sure these are lifelong friendships and help to ensure that these young people can one day look back with pride on a successful graduation,” said Jim Graham, manager, Ford DSFL. “It is crucial students, and all young people, understand the terrible consequences, both for themselves and for others, that taking risks behind the wheel can lead to.”
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