A new survey is shaming British motorists for their dishonesty on our roads, with one-in-five drivers saying they wouldn’t leave their details on another car if they hit it.
Driving off without making or attempting to make contact with the owner is an offence under the Road Traffic Act, even if there doesn’t appear to be any damage.
In the event of an exchange between two vehicles, the driver is obliged to give their name and contact details to the other driver, or leave a note if they are not there. Details should then be passed on to insurance companies.
One-in-10 of those questioned said they had dented another car when parking, while more than a third had seen another car get damaged when parking. On the plus side, the majority of Brits said they would step up if they saw another motorist’s car getting dented, with over half admitting they would help.
The online survey asked 500 motorists their thoughts on parking, and was conducted by YourParkingSpace.co.uk, which is a site that offers the opportunity for homeowners to rent out their driveways for other motorists to park on, with all bookings being taken online.
Harrison Woods, managing director at YourParkingSpace.co.uk, said: “It would seem there are a significant number of motorists prepared to flout motoring etiquette by not leaving their contact details if they hit another car when parking and had not been spotted.
“Not only is this a motoring offence, it is also very inconvenient for the other motorist who, through no fault of their own, could have to pay to fix the damage to their vehicle.”
