As Lent begins across the United Kingdom, new research is casting an illuminating spotlight on a modern-day challenge that may be even more pressing than giving up chocolate or alcohol: letting go of anger behind the wheel.
A nationwide survey released today by road safety technology brand OOONO paints a revealing picture of Britain’s driving culture, with nearly half of UK motorists (47%) reporting that they have experienced road rage. The findings suggest that irritable outbursts on the road have become not just commonplace, but a defining part of daily driving for many.
The survey, which included responses from more than 2,000 drivers, found that 1 in 6 (15%) drivers encounter road rage frequently, while nearly a third (31%) grapple with it from time to time. For many, frustration on the road is now a routine part of life.
But the story doesn’t end there. The research highlights the profound emotional impact of today’s driving environment. More than one in ten drivers (12%) report feeling stressed, anxious, or emotionally overwhelmed every day behind the wheel—a figure that rises to 40% when including those who feel this way several times a week or more.
When exploring what drives this stress, the data points to factors far beyond traffic congestion. Lack of sleep (33%) topped the list, followed by work-related pressures (29%), the rising cost of living (27%), family or relationship challenges (24%), health concerns (21%), and even lingering post-holiday expenses (14%).
“Driving has become one of the main pressure points of modern life,” said Sean Morris, OOONO’s UK Chief Operating Officer. “By the time people get into the car, they’re often already carrying stress from work, family, or financial worries. The road is where that pressure comes out—and unfortunately, it’s coming out as anger.”
The research also reveals notable differences across gender and age. More than half of men (51%) admit to experiencing road rage, compared to 42% of women. Men are also more than twice as likely as women to encounter it frequently (22% vs. 9%).
Age plays a significant role as well: drivers aged 35–44 are the most likely to report regular incidents of road rage (29%), compared with 21% of those aged 18–34, 6% of those aged 45–54, and only 4% among drivers aged 65–74.
“While road rage is often dismissed as ‘bad driving, this research shows it’s much more personal than that,” Morris added. “It’s not just what’s happening on the road—it’s what’s happening in people’s lives.”
Contrary to popular belief, the study found that traffic congestion is not the main cause. Instead, internal pressures—work stress, financial worries, and family responsibilities—are the main triggers, turning the car into a pressure cooker for emotions.
With Ash Wednesday ushering in a season of reflection and self-restraint, OOONO suggests that Lent is an ideal time for drivers to reconsider their road habits.
“Lent is about pausing, reflecting, and giving something up. Giving up anger on the road—even just for 40 days—could make journeys safer, calmer, and healthier for everyone. If we can change how we feel behind the wheel, we can change how our roads feel, too,” Morris concluded.
While nearly a quarter of drivers (24%) say they have never experienced road rage, OOONO’s research offers hope: calmer, more considerate driving is well within reach. This Lent, giving up anger could prove to be one of the most meaningful changes UK motorists make this year.
