Driven to Distraction: Car Rows

GEM Motoring Assist, a road safety organisation and breakdown coverage company, said its latest survey shows that that arguments between couples can drive them to distraction.

In its poll, 74% admitted that their partner critiques their driving while 50% said criticism and comments from their partner often lead to heated discussions and debates.

More alarming is that 50% admitted that disagreements made them feel more stressed and distracted behind the wheel.

GEM is concerned that arguments could distract drivers causing avoidable accidents.

David Williams, CEO of GEM Motoring Assist, comments: “Although it is common for us all to have disagreements with our partner, it is certainly not appropriate to start a journey or continue driving while under any kind of stress or strain.

"These situations must be avoided so that driving conditions can be as stress-free and distraction-free as possible.” 

Revealing more positive results, the survey showed that almost 95% never engage in an argument while using a cellphone behind the wheel. Despite the relatively high number of couple car rows, 90% of respondents believed that arguments between partners should be kept out of the car and continued when the journey is complete.

Williams said: “It is vital to make sure tense and strained conversations are not had in the car while driving, even if it means saving them for when back at home.

Allowing time to cool off before continuing with contentious conversations will mean motorists can drive with more focus and concentration, and could in the meantime also help diffuse the situation and prevent a potential argument.”