A survey of 1000 UK motorists and their driving habits was undertaken and commissioned for Traffex 2005 by organiser Brintex in association with Surveyor magazine. The motorists were asked about their views on the severity of motoring offences, enforcement measures, perceptions of what causes accidents and their habits on the road. Breaking the speed limit was the most commonly reported bad habit. Driving over the alcohol limit was regarded as the worst motoring offence. Others admitted to parking on double yellow lines, blocking a junction while in stationary traffic, tailgating, and jumping a red light. Seventeen per cent admitted to using a mobile phone while driving. Most people felt driving after consuming alcohol was one of the main causes of accidents on the UK roads. Other perceived causes were using a mobile phone, tailgating, speeding and the condition of the road surface. Fines were regarded as the most acceptable form of penalty. Only 29% had heard of the Traffic Management Act 2004 and the powers it gave authorities to penalise motorists for moving traffic offences.
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