Large number of motorists choosing public transport due to rising fuel costs
Kenneth Fox
New research reveals that large numbers of motorists are making changes to their driving habits in response to the ongoing increase in petrol and diesel prices across the country.
Respondents to the survey, which polled adults nationwide on behalf of Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC (Aviva) found 34 per cent of motorists have reduced their driving habits, with 10 per cent reporting a significant reduction and 24 per cent a slight reduction to combat the impact of rising fuel prices.
The study revealed that 13 per cent of motorists are now using public transport more frequently, 11 per cent are opting to walk more and 6 per cent have switched to an electric vehicle to mitigate rising fuel costs.
Despite these shifts however, 45 per cent of respondents have not altered their driving habits, while 4 per cent have switched to diesel cars to save on fuel expenses. Interestingly, only 1 per cent of those surveyed reported an increase in their driving.
The Aviva survey found some 14 per cent of those aged 35-44 have significantly reduced the extent of their driving, higher amongst women at 12 per cent and young men at 8 per cent.
Those who have not changed their driving habits is highest amongst those aged 45-54, and with an equal representation of men and women at 45 per cent.
Men are more likely (8 per cent) to have switched to an electric vehicle than women at 3 per cent.
Those moving to public transport is highest in Dublin at 22 per cent vs Connacht + Ulster at 6 per cent.
Commuting to work is the top reason for driving amongst 37 per cent of respondents, followed by running errands such as shopping or attending appointments at 25 per cent.
Other reasons included leisure activities (15 per cent), visiting family and friends (11 per cent), and driving children to school and other activities (9 per cent). Only 3 per cent claimed to drive to college or university.
Those driving to work was highest amongst the 45–54-year-olds and amongst those living in Munster and Connacht/Ulster at 45 per cent, respectively.
Commenting on the survey findings Julie Frazer, underwriting & product Lead, Aviva said: “Given the cost-of-living challenges affecting families and individuals across Ireland, it’s unsurprising that a significant number of motorists are reducing their driving habits to help mitigate the rising fuel prices.
"February marked the fourth consecutive month of increases in petrol and diesel prices. Interestingly, our research indicates that these rising costs are also encouraging motorists to switch to electric vehicles as a cost-saving measure.
“However, the research findings also highlight that motorists based in the Dublin region have an advantage, as they generally have access to a variety of alternatives, such as public transport, cycling, or walking.
"In contrast, those living in rural areas often face limited or no public transport options, and the distances involved may be too great for cycling or walking, even for the fittest individuals."