The FIVE Most Annoying Habits of Car Passengers… and it’s bad news if you’re a backseat driver

Whether you’ve agreed to ride with your friends on a road trip, or signed up for carpooling to save money – most drivers have encountered an annoying passenger at some point.

A new study that examined passengers’ most annoying tendencies has revealed the five most annoying things people do while being driven around.

In a focus group of 30 people who car-sharing, a bad credit car finance provider, Go car credit revealed what annoys drivers the most.

And most motorists won’t be shocked to discover that backseat drivers come out on top, with 50% of respondents claiming this was the most annoying habit.

Panting loudly when the driver brakes, complaining about speed, and hitting an imaginary brake pedal when the car suddenly stops are among the signs that you are a backseat driver.

So think twice the next time you feel the urge to offer unsolicited driving advice, as most motorists will be unimpressed.

Those arguing with the driver came in second, with 20 percent of survey participants agreeing that they were annoyed by arguing passengers, as it can put them in a very difficult position.

If drivers are distracted by an argument, they can lose concentration and could be fined for careless driving.

Another distracting habit is passengers viewing social media on their phones with the sound on, and 10 percent of drivers admitted they were upset by the habit.

Respondents agreed that backseat drivers were by far the most annoying passengers, but many were unnerved by other annoying habits, such as passengers falling asleep

According to the results: ‘This can distract the driver and it can also make noise in the car, especially if the radio is on.’

On the other hand, being too quiet can make the journey feel longer, as 10 percent of those surveyed admitted to being annoyed by passengers falling asleep.

The last habit that annoys only 10% of drivers is blocking mirrors when you try to drive.

One driver said: ‘It’s frustrating when the wing mirror is blocked by a passenger, especially when you’re trying to make a turn or reverse!’

Hayley O’Connor, Head of Marketing at Go Car Credit commented: ‘In-car business is great for travel, but a passenger you really don’t want can turn a pleasant ride into a tedious task for even the most courteous of people. drivers.’

Alternatively, the survey revealed what the dream car’s passenger looked like and an overwhelming 70 percent said it was someone who had a “good conversation” but didn’t “distract” them while driving.

Passengers who don’t make a mess, positively help with directions and don’t distract the driver made up the other 30 percent.