Three-Second Rule to Beat Traffic Light Pain
RAC research reveals it should take drivers just three seconds to move off when traffic lights turn green. Anything longer sparks road rage, especially among drivers aged 44 or under.
Nearly Half Demand Swift Green Light Action
- 46% of 2,498 drivers say three seconds max to start moving
- 35% think four to six seconds is fair
- 7% don’t mind if others take their time
But younger drivers get most annoyed by slow movers, with 64% of men aged 17-34 confessing frustration.
Standing Still at Lights: A Common Driver Nightmare
44% of drivers say they’ve waited 15 seconds or more for others to notice the green light—long enough for it to turn red again. Even worse, 64% recall waits of 10+ seconds, exceeding the reaction time of lightning-fast Usain Bolt sprinting 100 metres.
Why So Slow? Attention Deficit and Phones to Blame
- 72% say some drivers just don’t pay attention at traffic lights
- 43% call slow movers inconsiderate for holding up traffic
- 40% reckon illegal phone use at lights is the culprit
RAC spokesman Simon Williams said: “Three seconds may sound tiny, but anything longer feels like forever when you’re stuck behind a driver daydreaming or fiddling with their phone. Green lights often last only 15 seconds, so delays cut down the number of cars that can get through, worsening jams and pollution. “This common problem shows too many drivers aren’t paying attention. It slows journeys and raises safety risks when drivers suddenly jerk away without checking mirrors. “Younger drivers are most impatient, but everyone needs to focus more and be ready to go at the green. It saves time, reduces stress and keeps roads safer.”
