Removing kerbs could encourage safer driving

A new study has suggested that removing kerbs and making pedestrians more of a perceived threat to drivers, may actually encourage safer driving.

The researchers, from Newcastle University, said that 31% of those questioned stated that they found driving boring and that this led to an increased risk of people speeding or overtaking in a bid to find excitement when driving.

Dr Joan Harvey, who led the research, said that hazards can actually increase a drivers’ concentration and added: “In towns we may need to start considering some radical schemes such as removing kerbs, so there are more hazards - like pedestrians - around your car. Our research suggests that this might actually improve people's driving.”

The research, which questioned 1,563 drivers on their motoring style and personality, also found that 21% of those surveyed were slow and did not particularly like driving while 13% described themselves as safe and slow.

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