From the chatterbox to the human satnav, new research suggests car passengers often fall into just eight categories – so which one are you?
Vehicle experts from LeaseCar.uk have researched the biggest bugbears that drivers are forced to endure on the road, and car companions top the list by a mile.
They’ve reviewed the irritating traits many passengers will possess and identified the eight most common.
The nauseous ones and passengers with particularly weak bladders are often the most difficult to travel with, but can also be difficult to swerve.
However the team are urging drivers to put their foot down with ‘lead singers’ and chatterboxes to ensure the safety of road users at all times.
Tim Alcock of LeaseCar.uk said: “Sometimes drivers have no choice but to ferry around the friends and family members who like to think they’re performing a headline act as soon they get into the car.
“From the one who won’t shut up to the one who won’t wake up, irritating company can be one of the biggest downsides to holding a driving licence.
“And chances are you probably fall into one or two of these categories too!”
- The Lead Singer
The chart-topper on the radio simply provides backing vocals to the star of the show, who’s ready to shine in the passenger seat.
Unfortunately, they’ll forget half of the words, miss the crucial notes and probably give their audience of one a headache if they’re allowed to continue.
- The Backseat Driver
Unless you lay down the law before setting off, they’ll be telling you what speed to do, what gear to be in and checking you’ve checked your mirrors.
The most irritating will also apply an imaginary brake or start steering an invisible wheel, to show you how you should get around that corner – so remind them who’s driving.
- The Weak Bladder
Everyone knows that one friend who can barely make it off the driveway before needing to stop for a toilet break.
Wise drivers can avoid this annoying passenger by ordering a compulsory trip to the bathroom before they’re allowed into your car.
- The Snoozer
A sleepy car companion might be low maintenance, but sometimes sitting in total silence can be too much, especially if the journey is long, boring or difficult.
Bonus points if the peace and quiet is disturbed by their snoring though, when you can’t even put the radio on for fear of waking them up – maybe try suggesting ear plugs when giving a lift to a tired friend.
- The Chatterbox
Drivers always need to be cautious of taking a trip with that one friend or relative who just won’t shut up.
The last thing you need when behind the wheel is a headache or your patience tested with a series of frustrating questions or radio interruptions when you’re trying to concentrate on the road.
- The Human Satnav
You’ve driven there before, you know the best route, you’ve checked for traffic alerts before setting off.
None of this, however, will stop the human satnav suggesting a short cut or imagining some obstruction which means taking a turn off earlier or later.
- The Stinker
UK motorists should definitely think twice before offering a lift to that sweaty someone who’s just finished playing sports – or face forking out on air fresheners.
Anyone who’s been working with fish, on a farm or without deodorant should also come with a peg for your nose.
- The Nauseous One
How can a fully grown adult start to feel sick from a few minutes on the motorway? If your friend will probably need a paper bag, perhaps suggest they take public transport instead.
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