Tractors and boy racers among biggest summer gripes

Being stuck behind a caravan or tractor is the most annoying thing about summer driving for British motorists, a survey says.

Bank holiday tailbacks come a close second (42%), followed by boy racers blaring loud music out of open windows (32%).

A lack of air-conditioning (22%), driving in flip flops (11%) and hot steering wheels and seats (28%) also test the patience of drivers in summer, the survey by vehicle history specialist www.hpicheck.com shows.

Women are more likely to get annoyed by such things, than men, with 28% of female drivers irritated by driving with no air-conditioning, compared to 18% of men.

Meanwhile, 20% of women find it most stressful when children complain on long journeys, compared to 6% of men.

Drivers over 60 are more likely to get annoyed by caravans and tractors, boy racers and tailbacks compared to the 18-29 year olds, the report says.

Younger drivers get most annoyed about the lack of air conditioning and steering wheels and seats burning them.

Shane Teskey from HPI Check, says: “Everyone looks forward to getting away from it all over the summer, but it’s clear from our survey that driving at the height of the season can be stressful. The warm weather is great, once you’re on the beach, but stuck in traffic in a hot car is enough to test the patience of most motorists.”

Top Summer Driving Dislikes:

1. Being stuck behind a caravan or tractor
2. Bank holiday tailbacks
3. Boy racers pumping out loud music
4. Lack of air-conditioning
5. Hot steering wheel / hot or sticky leather seats
6. Forgetting sunglasses on a sunny day
7. Children complaining on long journeys
8. Driving in flip flops
9. Sunburn on one arm

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