Fleet operators must work with employees to curb dangerous driving habits ahead of the new Road Safety Strategy
Key survey findings
- 23% say they become impatient with slower drivers.
- 19% have missed their motorway or dual carriageway exit.
- 15% report “zoning out” while driving.
- 13% admit to driving unnecessarily close to or flashing other vehicles.
- 12% say they fail to check mirrors when changing lanes or pulling out.
- 12% become frustrated when stuck behind a slow-moving vehicle on a two-lane road.
With the UK Government’s updated Road Safety Strategy expected in early 2026, Venson Automotive Solutions is urging fleet operators to take proactive steps to address risky driving behaviours and strengthen workplace road safety policies. New research[1] by Venson reveals 23% of drivers admit to becoming impatient with slower drivers, while 15% reported zoning out while driving, increasing the risk of collision or worse fatal accidents.
Whilst the survey numbers may seem low, there are currently over 41 million licensed vehicles on the UK’s roads[2] which therefore suggests the chances of falling victim to another motorist’s risky or erratic driving are very real. The survey findings confirm that poor lane discipline, driver frustration, lapses in concentration and inadequate mirror use are dangerously common, with many drivers admitting to behaviours that can easily lead to collisions or near-misses.
15% of motorists say they “zone out”, leaving them with no memory of part of their journey, which is a serious sign of driving while fatigued or distracted. 12% who become frustrated with slower vehicles highlight a pattern of emotional responses that can escalate into dangerous decision-making. Additionally, the 12% who fail to check mirrors and the 19% who make last-minute lane changes demonstrate how seemingly small oversights can quickly put other road users at risk.
These behaviours collectively highlight the need for improved driver awareness and stronger compliance with road safety guidance. The forthcoming Road Safety Strategy is expected to include new measures aimed at reducing collisions and improving public safety. In anticipation, Venson is encouraging fleet operators to review their Driving for Work policies now to help them anticipate any changes needed. They should ensure they clearly outline expectations for safe driving, mirror checking, lane discipline, and managing impatience or fatigue, areas directly highlighted by Venson’s survey.
“It is easy for experienced drivers to fall into bad habits, but these habits put all road users at risk,” commented Simon Staton, Client Management Director at Venson Automotive Solutions. “Enough drivers in our research admit to unsafe behaviours, which gives cause for concern. It is therefore vital that fleet operators reinforce safety rules and provide guidance on good driving practices.”
Venson emphasises that employers have a Duty of Care to ensure every vehicle used for work, whether part of the company fleet or privately owned, is properly maintained, roadworthy and insured for business use. Implementing driver training and monitoring behaviour, can help reduce accidents, fleet downtime and associated costs.
Simon Staton concludes: “Fleet operators have a legal and moral responsibility to protect employees who drive for work. By investing in driver education and monitoring, businesses can lower collision rates, improve competency and deliver benefits across their organisation.”
[1] Survey conducted by QuestDIY of 300 drivers November 2025
[2] https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/vehicle-licensing-statistics-january-to-march-2025/vehicle-licensing-statistics-january-to-march-2025