Wednesday 29 April 2020

A fifth of people ‘will drive less’ in life after lockdown

More than one in five people say they will drive less after coronavirus lockdown restrictions are lifted.

That's the finding from a recent poll of 20,000 drivers conducted by the Automobile Association (AA), which suggests there will be a significant change in driving patterns.

However, the AA says outside of London, which has parking and congestion charging restrictions, there could be an increase in car use as people shun public transport for fear of the virus.

Life after lockdown could also see more people walking, cycling and running as 36% of people say they prefer these practices as part of their everyday routine.

The survey shows that it is possible wider changes in lifestyle could lead to a reduction in traffic from both public transport and private vehicles - 11% of all respondents said they would work from home more often once the lockdown is lifted, with this increasing to 23% amongst those aged 35-44.

Edmund King OBE, President of the AA, said: "Potentially there could be major changes to the way we travel post-lockdown. Analysis suggests that one-fifth might use public transport less in cities post-lockdown.

"Life after lockdown will be different. Some will shun public transport, others will drive less, more will cycle and walk, working from home will continue for many. Some drivers who have appreciated lower traffic noise, fewer and shorter journeys, may be prompted finally to buy an electric vehicle (EV).

"All in all, life will return and the increase in car use in some areas instead of public transport will be countered by others realising that they can use their cars less by working from home or even walking and cycling more".