22 minutes

Research from car manufacturer SEAT, has found that on average couples start arguing just 22 minutes into a car journey. Directions and getting lost are the biggest causes of disagreements followed by finding a parking spot, driving too quickly and driving too close to other cars.

Some arguments are so bad that one in ten people say they have led to them separating. Some stop the car and refuse to drive further with their partner in the car, and some partners get out of the car and choose to walk home. A SEAT spokesman said:

Many journeys can be stressful if you get caught up in traffic or can’t find your way. But it seems much of the stress is caused by our own partner when we are behind the wheel. An agitated driver is much more likely to lose concentration and have a prang.

Add comment September 29th, 2010

Crash for cash

The number of car insurance scams is on the rise. The insurance fraud bureau estimated that around 30000 accidents were staged last year, costing insurance companies millions.

According to the Guardian, Birmingham is now the UK’s top fraud hotspot. Fraudsters usually brake suddenly on a clear road or on a roundabout causing the driver behind them to crash into the back of their car. The fraudster ends up claiming for personal injury and for the car damage, and it often looks like the innocent person who crashed into the back of them is at fault. The fraudsters tend to target single mums or the elderly who are less likely to cause any issues.

Police and insurance companies are continually investigating insurance scams and aiming to cut down the amount of fraudulent claims.

Click here to watch BBC’s recent documentary on crash for cash claims.

Add comment September 10th, 2010

Trees help with speed

There is now a new way to help slow down speeding motorists and it’s an environmentally friendly way too.

A scheme in the village of Martham recently revealed that speeding can be reduced by planting trees. Rows of trees and hedges were planted along side the road in the village to create a more crowded effect, and as a result the average speed of drivers reduced by two or three miles per hour.

Mike Huke, Chairman of Martham Parish Council said:

I would say the whole thing is first class and has been a double bonus for Martham. Not only has it reduced speeding it has softened the landscape and has attracted more wildlife.

Add comment September 9th, 2010