Drivers are increasingly using the phrase 'sorry mate, I didn't see you' – known colloquially in the automotive sector as SMIDSY – to explain away their own poor driving, it has been revealed.
As part of the Institute of Advanced Motorists' (IAM) Drive & Survive initiative, the organisation is keen to improve the skills of road users across the UK and to help them to avoid the basic errors which lead to a high proportion of road traffic offences and accidents each year.
According to the organisation's data, 29 per cent of serious and 36 per cent of slight traffic accidents take place each year because individuals have not taken into account their own driving behaviour or that of other road users.
IAM head of training Simon Best commented: "SMIDSY moments are happening far too often and very few people are prepared to take responsibility for their part in them. It's always someone else's fault.
"All road users need to be more aware of who they are sharing the road with and the risks they present."
Motorists are therefore advised by the IAM keep an eye out for cyclists and motorcyclists at all times, to use their mirrors more often to check for potential hazards before any change in direction, as well as giving clear and early signals to other drivers and road users.
Indeed, 83 per cent of respondents to the IAM's research said an increased awareness of motorcyclists in particular would significant help to reduce the likelihood of SMIDSY moments in the future.
Earlier this month, the IAM unveiled findings highlighting a lack of support for government plans to raise fixed penalty notices for dangerous driving from £60 to £90 for convicted drivers.
According to the IAM's survey, 51 per cent of respondents do not back the plans, although the government backed its proposals claiming the additional income created by raising the fine's cost could provide an additional £30 million per annum to go towards helping the victims of traffic accidents across the country.
Convicted drivers can contact Performance Direct for all insurance advice. We insure many convicted drivers across the UK and can save you time and money.
Posted by Jack Smith
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