Nine out of 10 parents have experienced road rage while doing the school run, new research has found. A survey of 1,000 mums and dads who handle the morning drop-off revealed that traffic was a significant cause of irritation. Inconsiderately parked cars blocking routes, alongside drivers exceeding speed limits, ranked amongst the top complaints.
Alarmingly, 30% of respondents said their children have narrowly avoided being struck by another vehicle, while 5% reported their youngsters have actually been involved in a crash. One in five believe dangerous driving near schools increases following school holidays as roads become more congested and families readjust to term-time routines.
Driving conditions worsening
Additionally, 38% reckon driving conditions around schools have deteriorated in recent years, with 71% describing the experience as stressful. Consequently, 34% have either cut back on driving their children to school entirely – while another 34% are contemplating doing likewise.
A spokesperson for IAM RoadSmart, a road safety charity which commissioned the study, said: "The school run can be one of the most challenging times of day for drivers, parents and children alike.
"Many families are juggling work commitments, busy schedules and the pressure of getting everyone where they need to be on time, so it's understandable people can sometimes feel rushed.
"Around schools, children can be unpredictable and road conditions can change in an instant, which is why slowing down, staying patient and leaving a little extra time for the journey can make all the difference."
Parents admit to risky behaviour
The study found almost a third (29%) confessed to driving faster than they meant to due to running late, while a further 28% have sounded their horn during the school drop-off.
Meanwhile, 27% have parked somewhere they wouldn't ordinarily consider, and 13% admitted to using their mobile phone while stationary in traffic.
Overall, 39% said they feel rushed when driving their child to and from school on most days. Alarmingly, 41% stated that feeling rushed had a negative effect on their driving, according to data from OnePoll.com.
Calls for safety improvements
The biggest bugbears about the school run include the sheer volume of cars around the school gates (35%), parents driving impatiently or in a rush (32%), and lengthy queues (31%).
When asked what could be done to improve safety around schools, respondents called for more designated drop-off zones (40%), tougher enforcement of illegal parking (39%), and reduced speed limits (36%).
Others are pushing for more visible school crossing patrols (26%), additional traffic-calming measures (26%), and even staggered drop-off and pick-up times (25%).
A spokesperson for IAM RoadSmart added: "It is worth remembering children are always watching. The habits they see from adults today can shape the attitude they take into the driver's seat in years to come. Whether it's speeding, aggressive driving, illegal parking or using a phone behind the wheel, our actions send a powerful message."
