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Are sat navs to blame for the rise in bizarre motorway accidents?

18 September 2023

Do you or your colleagues regularly use sat nav devices when driving?
 
If so, you might be interested to learn that this technology is thought to be responsible for a 13 per cent rise in the number of incidents involving a motorist travelling in the wrong direction along a motorway.

The figure has risen to 872 incidents so far this year from January 1 to June 19 2023.

Whilst this may seem a relatively small figure in the grand scheme of things, it represents a concerning, growing trend in incidents arising from an over-reliance on technology.

While many are unable to recall a time before sat navs, which can be a useful tool, it has become too common for drivers to use them routinely on every trip and ignore the road signage around them. 

At this point, sat navs become a dangerous distraction that can lead to accidents.
 
AA president Edmund King said, “The increase in the number of vehicles being driven in the wrong direction on motorways is frightening and can be fatal.
 
“Generally, the slip road layout and signage are designed to ensure joining the motorway in the right direction is intuitive.
 
“However, sometimes drivers follow Sat Nav directions without thinking, for example, to ‘take the third exit’, without actually checking the signage, and therefore they can make mistakes.”
 
Naturally, if you encounter an oncoming vehicle whilst driving on the motorway, you should report it to the police by calling 999 if it is safe for you to do so.
 
At Marshall Leasing, we recognise that motoring accidents can occur unpredictably, through no fault of your own. This is why we are proud to offer a comprehensive accident management service for our clients, including a 24/7 helpline, recovery arrangement and courtesy car, subject to availability, terms and conditions.

Choosing the right leasing provider is a crucial for fleets. We are well recognised in the sector as being dedicated to the highest possible level of customer service, which is why we believe ourselves to be industry leaders in both client and staff retention. 

To find out more, please get in touch with our team of dedicated experts, who will be delighted to assist you in evaluating your unique circumstance and provide you with a bespoke recommendation. 

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