Recent research from Scrap Car Comparison has identified the travel destinations that evoke the most anxiety for drivers, with India topping the list, Cape {town} Etc reports.
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Whether embarking on a bucket-list road trip or relocating to a new country, many motorists find themselves feeling nervous about driving abroad.
To assess which countries intimidate drivers the most, researchers surveyed 2 000 individuals globally, asking them to rate their apprehension about driving in various destinations on a scale from 1 to 10. India emerged as the most daunting location, averaging a ‘scare score’ of 7.15.
Known for its chaotic traffic, which includes cars, motorcycles, rickshaws and livestock, India’s reputation is bolstered by cities like Bengaluru and Pune, which are notorious for heavy congestion.
South Africa ranks more favourably, as the 21st most ‘nerve-racking’ country for visiting drivers, however still scores a moderate ‘scare score’ of 6.08 out of 10.
Countries in South America and Asia also ranked high on the anxiety list, with Venezuela, Brazil, Thailand and China among the top ten.
These nations are often associated with dense, confusing traffic, particularly in major tourist cities such as São Paulo and Beijing, which are known for experiencing some of the longest traffic jams in history.
For those considering a European road trip, destinations like Hungary, Greece and Italy also inspire nerves.
The anxiety in Greece and Italy often stems from navigating narrow ancient streets and steep mountainous roads. Conversely, the Netherlands is viewed as the most driver-friendly country, scoring just 4.41 due to its well-maintained roads and clear traffic patterns.
The survey reveals that the primary reason for anxiety while driving abroad is the need to drive on the opposite side of the road. With about 30% of countries driving on the left – like the UK, Australia and South Africa – drivers face significant adjustments when visiting countries where driving on the right is the norm.
Other contributing factors to driving anxiety include concerns about aggressive driving behaviours, unfamiliar road signs, and unexpected road conditions.
David Kottaun, Operations Manager at Scrap Car Comparison, commented, ‘Driving in a new country can be thrilling, offering new sights and greater freedom. However, it also adds a layer of anxiety due to differing road layouts, laws, and driving cultures. To ease these nerves, preparation is key. Researching road laws, planning routes, and utilising navigation apps can significantly help. Most importantly, take your time and factor in extra travel time to your plans. If the stress becomes overwhelming, public transport is always a safe alternative.’
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