Ever noticed who’s behind the wheel during those near-miss moments? Studies and everyday experiences hint at a clear answer: women. So, what makes women superior behind the wheel?
1. Lower Accident Rates
Women are statistically involved in fewer accidents than men. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), men are 63% more likely to be involved in fatal crashes per 100 million miles driven.
2. Better Insurance Rates
Women often pay less for car insurance because they are considered lower risk. Even though some states show women paying more recently, traditionally, their safer driving habits have kept premiums lower.
3. More Likely to Wear Seat Belts
Women are more consistent about buckling up, reducing injury risks during accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that men are less likely to wear seat belts, leading to higher fatality rates.
4. Less Aggressive Driving
Women tend to be less aggressive on the road, resulting in fewer road rage incidents and safer journeys. Data shows men are more prone to aggressive behaviours like speeding and tailgating.
5. Superior Multitasking
Handling kids, planning dinner, and navigating rush-hour traffic? Women’s ability to multitask effectively helps them manage distractions better.
6. Lower DUI Rates
Men are more likely to drive under the influence. Women’s lower rates of DUI contribute to safer roads, with men accounting for a higher percentage of DUI-related accidents.
7. More Cautious with Speed
Women generally adhere more to speed limits. This cautious approach reduces the likelihood of severe accidents, with men being more frequently involved in speed-related crashes.
8. Better at Following Rules
Women are more likely to obey traffic laws, making the roads safer. Men are more likely to break traffic laws, leading to higher accident rates.
9. Safer with Kids in the Car
Women often drive more carefully when transporting children, ensuring safer trips for the whole family.
10. Higher Defensive Driving Skills
Women tend to anticipate and react to potential hazards more effectively, helping to avoid accidents.
11. Less Likely to Show Off
Women are less prone to risky behaviours like speeding and reckless driving just to impress, leading to fewer preventable accidents.
12. More Patience
Patience is a virtue, especially on the road. Women’s patience helps them handle traffic jams and slow drivers without resorting to dangerous manoeuvres.
13. Lower Involvement in Fatal Crashes
Fatal crash statistics show men are involved in more deadly accidents. Women’s safer driving habits contribute to lower fatality rates.
14. Better at Navigation
While it’s a common joke that men don’t ask for directions, women use all tools available, from maps to GPS, ensuring they stay on the right path.
15. Less Prone to Road Rage
Women typically exhibit less aggressive responses to frustrating driving situations, keeping the roads calmer and safer.
16. Better Vehicle Maintenance
Women often adhere more strictly to vehicle maintenance schedules, and a well-maintained car is safer.
17. More Focused on Safety Features
Women are more likely to prioritize vehicles with advanced safety features, enhancing overall road safety.
18. Greater Awareness of Surroundings
Women tend to be more aware of their surroundings, helping prevent accidents and reacting to unexpected events.
19. Less Likely to Engage in Distracted Driving
Studies show women engage in distracted driving less frequently than men. Staying focused on the road reduces accident risks.
20. More Responsible Behaviour
Women generally exhibit more responsible behaviour behind the wheel, translating to safer driving practices.
Ready to Rethink Who’s the Better Driver?
There you have it — solid reasons why women might just be the better drivers. Next time you’re on the road, remember that safe driving isn’t about gender; it’s about making smart choices.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / F8 studio.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.