The results of the latest AA Streetwatch survey have been announced. The study was carried out by volunteers across the country to study driver behaviour.

The volunteer team observed the behaviour of 40,000 vehicles at a variety of road junctions. Among the findings recorded was the fact that 4.92% of drivers were not wearing their seatbelt. It was also noticed that nearly one in 25 cars had faulty brake lights.

A separate survey was carried out on 11,548 AA members to gauge people's opinions on driver behaviour. The belief among 83% of people asked was that one in 20 drivers use a hand-held mobile phone while driving. However the Streetwatch team observed only 0.23% of drivers on the phone at the junctions covered.

Nearly two thirds of the surveyed group expected to see 20% of vehicles travelling too fast. The view of those observing junctions was that less than half that number of drivers - 9.57% - were negotiating the junctions at excessive speed.

The biggest driver error observed was failing to indicate; nearly one third of vehicles were observed not signalling

AA President Edmund King commented on the survey results: "AA Streetwatch observations show that 5% of drivers are still not wearing seatbelts despite this contributing to 30% of road deaths. Many of those un-belted were taxi and van drivers who should be aware that they are potentially more at risk due to their higher mileage. It is of great concern that 5% of drivers are still haven't got the 'clunk click every trip' message."

Responding to the survey findings, the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) commented that the biggest failing was down to driver forgetfulness rather than wilful speeding or phone use. The IAM called for an improved driving test, more incentives for post-test training and high-profile policing to target drivers who break the law.

John Lambert - 15 Jun 2011