Here’s the latest news from GEM Motoring Assist from a poll which suggests a lot of us out there are rather upset at the terrible condition of UK roads:
GEM’s latest poll reveals that 87% of UK drivers agree that not enough maintenance work or regular inspections are carried out across the country’s roads. What’s more, a mere 1% of respondents described current road markings as ‘excellent’ and 3% as ‘very good’, with the majority describing UK road surfaces as ‘poor’.
Furthermore, a huge 86% have noticed a greater number of potholes appearing in the last 12 months: while more than half blamed the floods earlier in the year for causing road conditions and markings to deteriorate. Yet, despite the problems, only 19% of drivers said they would happily see a small increase in Vehicle Excise Duty for pothole repair work.
David Williams MBE, CEO of GEM Motoring Assist, comments: “We know that the weather at this time of year really has an effect on our roads, particularly as ice and frost are destructive to road surfaces and can also worsen existing damage. Yet it is up to the Government to ensure surface and markings maintenance work is regular, to help manage these problems and stop them from getting worse.”
When it comes to white line road markings, more than 76% of drivers said they know of lines that need repainting. Yet, more promisingly, 63% said they are aware of white lines that have been repainted in the last six months. This follows the Road Safety Markings Association’s recent survey which further highlights the urgent need for improved road markings on motorways and dual carriageways.
David continues: “There is much damning evidence showing that the state of our roads is being neglected by the Government. Not only are motorists unhappy with the current conditions, but road safety is seriously compromised when road markings and surfaces are below standard. It is something that the Government should be addressing well before the UK’s drivers should have to start complaining.”
GEM’s poll also reveals that 53% of motorists who have driven abroad believe that road markings and road conditions are better in other European countries than in the UK.
Leave a Reply