Drivers at risk of £80 fine this bank holiday as thousands break driving law in fuel efficiency push

Nearly one in five drivers has admitted to breaking a major driving law in a bid to improve fuel efficiency, according to new research.

The study by OOONO found many motorists remained confused about speeding laws and road safety, with family travel adding further pressure during one of the busiest holiday periods of the year.

Researchers found 19 per cent of drivers had recently begun driving faster due wrongly believing it would reduce petrol or diesel consumption.

The survey also revealed more than a quarter of motorists are more likely to unintentionally exceed the speed limit when travelling with children in the car.

A further 26 per cent admitted they had accidentally sped while carrying young passengers, raising concerns over road safety during the school holidays.

The findings come as half of UK drivers expect to spend more time on the roads over half-term.

Around a quarter said they are preparing for longer journeys, while a similar number expect to make extra short trips.

Family road trips remain popular, with 45 per cent either planning or considering a holiday by car. But the research suggested these journeys can be highly stressful for motorists.

Children were named as the biggest distraction behind the wheel, with 28 per cent saying under-18s are the main reason they lose focus while driving.

The report found that this was ahead of partners, which were blamed by 22 per cent, and pets, which distracted 14 per cent of drivers.

Heavy traffic was also identified as a major issue, with nearly a third saying congestion is their biggest distraction on the road.

More than a quarter of drivers said family journeys cause them high levels of stress, while almost one in five admitted arguments had broken out in the car during trips.

Worryingly, 13 per cent reported nearly being involved in a collision while travelling with family members.

Some motorists said the pressure became so intense that they had to stop driving completely.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

• Petrol and diesel drivers face huge £2,500 fine when trying to save fuel next week
• Ford announces new European car plans after huge £14billion electric vehicle write-off
• Blue Badge parking approvals surge for 'hidden disabilities' including ADHD and anxiety

Around 11 per cent admitted pulling over during journeys to calm themselves down before continuing.

The survey also highlighted the financial consequences of speeding offences during road trips.

More than a third of drivers said they had either received a speeding fine or attended a speed awareness course following a UK family journey. Drivers penalised reported paying average fines of just over £80.

The research uncovered several common myths surrounding speeding laws and speed cameras.

More than a third of motorists wrongly believed speed cameras must be clearly visible and signposted.

One in six said they thought slowing down just before reaching a speed camera would stop them from receiving a fine.

Meanwhile, 14 per cent incorrectly believed a speeding ticket becomes invalid if it is not delivered within 14 days.

The so-called "10 per cent plus 2mph" rule was also misunderstood, with 12 per cent believing it gives motorists a legal allowance to exceed speed limits.

Meanwhile, one in 10 drivers even believed that motorists risk losing their licence only if they are caught travelling above 100mph.

A spokesperson for OOONO said: "Family road trips should be enjoyable, but distractions, stress and confusion around speeding laws are creating unnecessary risks for drivers.

"With more families travelling this half term, it is important motorists stay focused, plan ahead and understand the rules of the road."