Driving is an indelible part of our daily lives, and a vital mode of transport for millions across the UK. According to recent government data, the average person in England takes 429 trips per year via car; further to that, 70% of daily commutes to work are completed using cars.
With car travel being such a fundamental mode of transport for the work commute, it is important to recognise the risks that such travel can impose on its users. Car travel presents some specific risks and challenges in a number of keyways – but what are those risks?
Accident (and Injury) Risks
The most prominent risk associated with regular and long-term driving is that of suffering an accident on the road – whether due to breakdown or collision. Car breakdowns are more likely to occur where a vehicle receives more regular use, posing a risk to driver and other road users. In the event of a breakdown, the financial cost of repairing the vehicle can be difficult to budget for.
Accidents can cause larger-scale vehicle damage, which can be more costly to repair and result in long-term financial repercussions through increased insurance premiums. In the case of borrowing a company vehicle or driving a hire car, temporary insurance can help absorb much of the short-term cost.
Of course, the most significant risk posed by any road traffic incident is that of injury. Even with the profoundly comprehensive safety measures included in modern vehicles, it is possible to sustain minor injuries in the form of whiplash and muscular injury – while more significant injuries can occur at higher speeds, being more likely when a motorway commute is part of the picture. In cases where injuries occur, especially if they lead to medical expenses, lost wages, or long-term impacts on health and well-being, hiring a lawyer experienced in personal injury law can be crucial. This proactive step ensures that individuals receive the support and legal representation needed during challenging times following a road traffic incident.
Long-Term Physical Health Risks
Short term health risks are not the only health risks attributed to regular driving, though. Mounting evidence points to commuting and regular long-distance drives as a potential cause of high blood pressure, which can lead to heart conditions further down the line.
There is also a higher risk of developing a musculoskeletal disorder when driving on a regular basis; poor posture and repetitive movements such as steering and changing gear can contribute heavily to conditions such as chronic back pain and even repetitive strain disorder. This risk is higher in regular driving commutes than if one were to use public transport, thus posing a unique health risk.
Mental Health Risks
As important as it is to reckon with the physical health risks that extensive driving can present, there are some crucial risks relating to mental health that can have long-lasting impacts on quality of life. Stress is a common symptom experienced by heavy road-users, where adverse traffic conditions and the behaviour of other drivers can contribute heavily.
Stress brought on by regular driving can be something of a gateway to further mental illness, such as anxiety and depression – which can have a significant impact on personal and professional relationships.
