Survey: Over 50% of Drivers Anxious About Other Drivers’ Behaviors

Some 65% of Americans said they feel more anxious traveling in vehicles now compared to before the pandemic, and over half of drivers "always" or "often" feel anxious about other drivers' behavior, according to a newly released survey from Cobra Electronics.

The survey of 2,000 U.S. consumers explored American driving habits that have emerged post-pandemic and the findings indicate a new level of high anxiety on the nation’s roadways.

The majority of those surveyed feel the pandemic has prompted people into risky driving behaviors. Specifically, three in five respondents agreed the pandemic made people drive more unsafely.

Moreover, the survey found that the average American had at least three "close calls" in the past two years alone.

When it comes to other drivers, people appear to be more wary than ever. Some 60% say they keep their eye on the speedometer when someone else is driving and over half of respondents (52%) admitted that when they’re passengers, they often find themselves wishing the driver would slow down.

Moreover, seven in 10 people claim they make sure to check that everyone has their seatbelt on before the car is in motion. Noteworthy, most of respondents in relationships — 63% — even admit they get nervous when their partner is behind the wheel.

But survey respondents need to look at their own driving habits as well. While 62% say now it's more important than ever to drive safely, they don't appear to be doing so. Some 35% of American drivers admit they “sometimes,” “rarely,” or “never” comply with speed limits on a road or highway.

What’s more, half of Americans confess they wouldn’t know what to do if their vehicle broke down on the highway, and nearly a quarter (23%) lack confidence in knowing what to do if their battery dies in the middle of a trip.