Stress on our streets: congestion puts almost one in five drivers on edge every journey

The percentage of women who found it stressful at least once a week was higher (48%) compared to men (40%), and it’s worse among the youngest, least experienced, drivers (52% of those aged 18-24).

The East Midlands and the North West are the regions with the highest percentage finding driving stressful at least once a week (55% and 54% respectively). At the opposite end of the scale are Wales and Northern Ireland (23% and 17% respectively), reflecting that these regions benefit from lower volumes of traffic.

Workers in Manufacturing (50%), Delivery Services (48%) and Logistics (45%) are the ones most affected, saying they feel stressed at least once a week.

While driving can be stressful at times, the fact that one in five drivers are feeling it every time they take a trip is surprisingly high.

For example: congestion caused by the sheer volume of traffic is a challenge for all drivers, and one which there is no easy answer. To help combat this, Alphabet believes that targeted government investment in the right public transport infrastructure should be prioritised.

While driving may naturally create stress amongst some drivers, there are steps that motorists can take to help ease the burden behind the wheel.

Nick Bartley, Head of Customer Development, at Alphabet (GB), said: “Driving is a responsibility that can too easily be taken for granted. Many of us hop into a car or van without giving a second thought to the task at hand. For some, a greater degree on planning and preparation can help to alleviate some of the road-based strain.”

• Plan the journey, not just the destination – Check traffic levels, roadworks and the weather before you set off. Pressure builds when you’re running behind schedule, so give yourself ample time and aim to build some padding around client meetings or delivery slots where possible
• Know your vehicle – Make sure you’re aware of what warning lights mean and check that you’re happy the car or van you’re in is in a roadworthy condition, especially if it’s a pool car or hired vehicle. Get comfortable before setting off, setting the seat, mirrors and steering wheel to the correct position
• Use technology to lighten the load – Advanced driver awareness systems are there to help you. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist and blind spot monitoring don’t replace conscientious driving, rather are there to aid you on your journey
• Keep calm – Easier said than done, but a relaxed environment with calming music, the right ambient temperature and distractions removed can help. If tension builds, take a few slow breaths. It can be tempting to take hands-free business calls on the move, but consider pulling over to take them, or waiting until you’ve arrived at your destination
• Stop, stop, stop – Taking regular breaks of 15 minutes for every two hours driven is officially recommended in the Highway Code. Driving requires plenty of concentration and fatigue builds, especially if you’re covering lots of miles a day. Breaks also give you a chance to refuel yourself, as dehydration or a dip in blood sugar can exacerbate irritability

Alphabet supplied more than 57,000 new company cars and commercial vehicles to UK businesses in 2025, and manages a portfolio of almost 160,000 leased vehicles on UK roads today.

Notes for editors

Research was conducted from 30 June-8 July 2026 on behalf of Alphabet (GB) and featured the views of 500 professionals who drive a company car or commercial vehicle as a significant part of their working day. The data was collected through a quantitative online panel, and the selection and survey followed a structured method to ensure reliable results.

Alphabet’s full research will be published later this year in a white paper entitled ‘Business Drivers in Crisis: The Impact of Potholes, Stress and Tech on UK Company Car and CV Users.’

About Alphabet

Alphabet is a global leading provider of Business Mobility. As such, it enables companies to manage their corporate mobility in an economical and sustainable way. Founded in 1997 as a division of BMW Group, Alphabet has extensive knowledge of international fleet management and leasing. Its comprehensive portfolio includes consulting and funding as well as smart management products and services for company fleets.

Alphabet’s Business Mobility solutions are tailor-made to meet specific corporate requirements. Today, Alphabet manages a portfolio of over 800,000 leased cars and light commercial vehicles of all makes and is ranked fourth in the market worldwide.

Alphabet also pioneers the creation of Advanced Mobility Solutions: Alphabet offers companies a holistic approach to eMobility, the mobility app for smartphones, Alphabet App, makes life easier for its users, and Alphabet Rent offers flexible rental solutions for short and long-term demands.

Alphabet has its headquarters in Munich, Germany, and is now represented in 38 countries. For more information, please visit: https://www.alphabet.co.uk/