New research has settled the debate over Western Australia's worst driving habit, with tailgating officially crowned the state's biggest road annoyance. The study, conducted by Australian driving lesson platform EzLicence, surveyed more than 1000 drivers nationwide to uncover the most irritating behaviours on the roads.
Tailgating Takes the Top Spot
Nearly 22 per cent of West Australian motorists identified tailgating—specifically, cars failing to maintain a three-second gap—as their primary gripe. Men were particularly vocal, with one in four rating the lack of safe following distance as their biggest pet peeve. Motorists caught by WA Police for tailgating face a $200 fine and the loss of two demerit points.
Peter Davis, CEO of EzLicence, said the results highlight a clear problem with lane discipline and following distance among WA drivers. 'WA drivers are most frustrated by tailgating, followed by drivers hogging the right lane—highlighting that key road frustrations are largely centred on following distance and lane discipline,' Mr Davis said.
Right Lane Hogging: A Uniquely WA Annoyance
While most other states rank failure to use indicators as their second-biggest annoyance, West Aussies have a more unique complaint: sitting in the middle or right lanes unnecessarily. According to EzLicence's research, 20 per cent of WA motorists deem right-lane hogging the most annoying road behaviour—almost double the Australian average of 11 per cent.
Western Australian road legislation requires drivers on multi-lane roads with a speed limit of 90 km/h or more to keep to the left lane, unless overtaking. The same rule applies where 'keep left unless overtaking' signs are displayed.
Other Top Annoyances
Rounding out the top five most hated driving habits in WA are failing to use indicators, using a phone while driving, and aggressive driving. The statewide survey underscores a broader frustration with basic road etiquette and safety.
Mr Davis also warned learner drivers about the risk of adopting bad habits from parents and friends. 'Many of these behaviours can be picked up early when learning to drive and while practising with family and friends is valuable, learners can also adopt bad habits without realising it,' he said.
Rising Road Toll Concerns
The findings come as WA's road toll is expected to soar, with experts warning that the state could see a staggering 200 road deaths by the end of 2026. The combination of dangerous driving behaviours and increasing traffic underscores the need for greater awareness and enforcement.
