UK Drivers Are 3x More Likely to Pull over for a Woman Than a Man

The latest research from ClickMechanic, an online marketplace for car repair, has found that drivers in the UK are three times more likely to pull over to help a woman, who has broken down on the roadside, than a man. Indeed, 57% of drivers are more likely to pull over for a stranded woman, compared to only 17% being more likely to do the same for a man. However, being female is apparently not the most influential quality to have when broken down.

Overall, UK drivers are most likely to pull over to help an elderly person, as 69% agree that seeing an older driver would make them more likely to stop. A car carrying children then ranks second with 66% of drivers admitting that they are more likely to stop under these circumstances, followed by 57% being more likely to pull over to help a woman. After which, the circumstances show a strong drop in percentage: young adults (27%), those wearing a business suit (20%) and men (17%) will struggle more to find help. Ranking last, only 16% are more likely to pull over for someone with a premium car.

By looking at the lowest percentages of those who would not usually pull over, the most influential circumstances can be determined. Being an elderly driver (27%), having children in the car (30%) and being a woman (36%) have the lowest percentages amongst the categories, meaning they are the most influential qualities. All other circumstances show that roughly 50% of UK drivers would not usually stop to help.

Focusing on location when looking at those who are more likely to pull over for an elderly driver, Plymouth proves to be the most helpful city as 87% of drivers are more likely to stop. Drivers are not so keen in Bristol, however, where a less impressive 54% are more likely to pull over. Drivers in Plymouth also join with Birmingham in being the most likely to assist those with children (72%); Bristol, once again, is at the bottom of the table with only 57% of drivers being more likely to pull over. Indeed, Plymouth appears to be a good location to break down, as it also takes the top spot for drivers being most likely to help a stranded woman on the roadside (79%), whereas drivers in Manchester are not so swayed by this circumstance (45%).

Co-Founder of ClickMechanic, Andrew Jervis, said: “With the introduction of smartphones and roadside assistance, UK drivers have naturally become less likely to pull over and help a fellow driver on the roadside as we assume they have cover or have already contacted someone for help. However, that being said, some of us are still willing to stop for others, particularly if we are influenced by their circumstances. It is interesting to see just how far age, sex and circumstances can still influence our chances for assistance.”