Signs You're A Backseat Driver
Backseat drivers, we’ve all experienced them, and perhaps after reading this, you may discover you’re guilty of displaying backseat driver tendencies.
Pressing an imaginary brake pedal, gasping loudly when a driver brakes, or flinching when the vehicle drives too close to the car in front, are just a few examples of backseat driving habits I’m sure we’ve all encountered.
Who Are Backseat Drivers?
A study of 2,000 motorists, conducted by accident advice helpline, revealed seven in 10 motorists believed there is nothing more annoying than driving with a passenger who constantly tried to voice their opinion or offers unwanted ‘help’ or advice.
It appears backseat drivers are most likely to be those who are used to driving and being in control of the car, rather than sitting as a passenger. If you drive regularly, it can be hard to shut off when travelling in the passenger seat. However, unfortunately making comments and reacting to what is happening on the road can be highly distracting and result in an accident.
You might be wondering, who are the main culprits of backseat driving? Research has shown partners come out on top, closely followed by mum and dad. No surprises there!
What are the consequences of backseat drivers?
Not only is having someone nag in your ear whilst you’re driving annoying, it can also have some serious consequences. A quarter of people are said to have missed a turning, while seven per cent have experienced more serious consequences such as a collision with a car, cyclist or even a pedestrian.
Top 20 backseat driving tendencies
Below are the top 20 signs of a back-seat driver – do any remind you of someone you know?
1. Criticising the driver's decisions behind the wheel
2. Complaining about the driver going too fast
3. Gasping loudly at any slight braking movement
4. Flinching when they feel the driver is too close to another vehicle/obstacle/wall et
5. Complaining about the driver going too slowly
6. Pointing out when to turn off or onto a road at a junction
7. Pressing an imaginary brake pedal
8. Advising on which lane the driver should be in
9. Telling the driver when the traffic lights have changed to green
10. Insisting on giving directions
11. Interfering with the music
12. Swearing at other cars' drivers
13. Gesticulating at other road users
14. Getting road rage on the driver's behalf
15. Waving 'thanks' at other drivers for letting you out
16. Reading out the road signs as they pass
17. Changing the in-car temperature
18. Holding your hands over your face
19. Closing your eyes frequently when someone else is driving
20. Disagreeing with satnav
