The top driving stresses facing drivers as roads return to normal post-lockdown have been revealed by a leading road safety charity, with the return of traffic jams now causing the most agitation behind the wheel.

IAM RoadSmart conducted the stress related investigation* which discovered that more than four-in-10 motorists (42 per cent) are anxious about returning to sitting in long tail backs as more traffic returns to UK roads.

Meanwhile, simply getting used to busier roads again was causing stress among more than three-in-10 motorists (33 per cent), while other drivers returning to the road who might be out of practice was causing concern to more than a quarter of motorists (27 per cent).

Neil Greig, IAM RoadSmart director of policy and research, said: "As traffic starts getting heavier and heavier on UK roads it must not be forgotten that congestion and worries about other road users can cause stress to many motorists.

"With more traffic comes potentially more uncomfortable driving situations, such as being stuck in a traffic jam for a lengthy period or simply being surrounded by extra vehicles."

Meanwhile, other current top driving stresses due to heavier traffic include being able to get to the end location on time and returning to long car journeys.

Mr Greig added: "All drivers should give due care and consideration to their fellow motorists now that more-and-more of us are once again getting behind the wheel."

.