Fifth of UK drivers are too nervous to get behind the wheel abroad, poll finds

Almost half of respondents worried they may accidentally break a road law they did not know about

(Alamy)

One in five drivers are too nervous to get behind the wheel abroad, a survey has found.

A poll of 2,000 British motorists found 19 per cent would never drive overseas and 63 per cent feel less confident driving on roads abroad than they do on roads at home.

The biggest concern about taking to the road on holiday is how unfamiliar they will feel, while 46 per cent said they were worried they may accidentally break a road law they did not know about.

Thirty-eight per cent are even wary of scuffing or denting the rental car because it feels unfamiliar to drive.

“Renting a car abroad may seem daunting if you’ve never driven abroad before, however, the freedom it gives you can enable you to have a fantastic holiday." said Emma Grimster, a spokesperson for TravelSupermarket, which commissioned the research. “Having your own wheels can open up a whole world of opportunities for exploration and discovering a destination in a new and unique way.

“Being in control of your own destiny and going anywhere you like, anytime, certainly beats waiting for the bus.”

When it comes to hiring a car abroad, one in 10 take the opportunity to hire a vehicle which is nicer than the one they drive at home.

However, 56 per cent said they would most likely end up with the most cost-effective vehicle, while 13 per cent choose the model they felt would be the safest.

Fifty-one per cent thought hiring your own car gave them the opportunity to see more of the natural landscape and 36 per cent are glad to avoid the confusion of different public transport systems.

Older drivers are more likely to bring their confidence on UK roads with them on holiday, while younger drivers need more convincing to get behind the wheel when abroad.

And male drivers are more susceptible to being enticed by the open road on holiday, though they are also more likely to knowingly break a road law abroad, too.

When driving on holiday, women are more concerned about the dangerous driving of other motorists on the road, while men worry they may inadvertently damage the rental car and lose their deposit.

“Places like Spain, Portugal, France and the US have great road networks and are often less congested than major routes in the UK," Ms Grinster said. “Prepare for your trip by doing some research into the rules of the road in your destination.

“Also be aware of items you must have in the car with you e.g. a spare wheel, warning triangle and reflective jacket when driving in Spain. Take it steady and stick to the speed limit, taking in the local scenery as you travel .

SWNS