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6 unexpected facts about Irish drivers

From being possessive over our radios to fearing our own mothers, we’re all a right turn up for the books.

RECKON YOU KNOW Irish roads and the drivers on them pretty well?

Well, think again.

Life is full of surprises and from motorway to bohereen, Irish roads are no different.

The below statistics were gathered by Coyne Research on behalf of DoneDeal – and there are some wildcards in there…

1. Face the music and dance

7 out of 10 of the driving population claim they let their passengers have a choice over the music while driving. So if you reckon your mates never let you choose a song, it might just be you, pal.

(But funnily enough, 1 in 5 aged 55+ state that they would absolutely not let anyone else choose the music while they drive. So that explains your Dad’s reluctance to part with that well-worn Dire Straits CD…)

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2. Video killed the radio star

Even in the age of Spotify and Apple Music, radio still comes out on top for Irish drivers, with 76% saying they still tune into their favourite stations while on the road. 5% of people prefer silence while driving. After all, it is golden.

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3. King of the road

75% of us will go second-hand with our next auto purchase. Pre-owned? More like pre-loved.

hugcar *hugs* Flickr Flickr

(This figure rises to a massive 9 in 10 in the 18-24 age bracket. While we’re on the subject, if you have memories of your own first car, leave them in the comments below. You’ll never love another vehicle like it.)

4. Significant (b)other

Think you can guess what passenger rates highest on the stress-o-meter? Reckon it might be your boss? Or a sibling? Maybe your mam or dad?

Drumroll please…

All of the above were beaten to the punch by your significant other, with nearly a third of the vote. Ouch.

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5. Precious cargo

That said, it is in fact the humble Irish Mammy that strikes the fear of God into most drivers aged 18-24. 50% of that segment say their mother is their least favourite passenger to chauffeur. Actually, that is one very unsurprising statistic…

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6. Beep beep

4 in 5 Irish adults drive, but interestingly 1 in 4 Irish women aged 18+ claim to not drive in comparison to 1 in 10 Irish men.

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What do you make of the stats? Did any surprise you – or did you agree with them? Let us know in the comments below…

DoneDeal is Ireland’s most visited website for buying and selling cars. Whether you’re looking to trade up or sell on your old vehicle, DoneDeal is the easy online marketplace for you. Sellers offer great value across cars, parts, motorbikes, trucks, mobile homes and lots more. Find out more about buying and selling cars in our Motor section here

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