The Most Annoying Things Passengers Can Do While You're Driving

Driving is probably one of your favorite pastimes if you're a car enthusiast. There's nothing better than enjoying your car on a windy mountain road or a local track day. But many irritating things come with driving. Traffic is a big one, and so are the hordes of distracted drivers on our roads. But driving can become even more frustrating when a passenger is the source of your stress.

Go Car Credit recently conducted a focus group with 30 car-share service users to discover the most annoying passenger habits. Unsurprisingly, 50% of respondents said backseat drivers are the most frustrating passenger type. We've all had to deal with a passenger who thinks they know better than us. Not only is it irritating, but a nagging passenger who constantly criticizes your driving can be very distracting.

As we know, distracted driving kills thousands of Americans every year. Per the NHTSA, nearly 3,000 road users were killed in accidents related to distracted driving.

Next time you have a backseat driver in your car, perhaps you should drop them off at a bus stop or remind them that Uber is a reliable service.

20% of participants believe the worst passenger argues with the driver. Respondents said they find concentrating difficult when someone is shouting at them. Several of them said they worried they would be fined for driving recklessly, but an unfocused driver could result in something worse. If you're a passenger with a bee in your bonnet, it's wiser to reserve your outbursts and expletives for the destination.

Another grievance, particularly on longer journeys, is passengers who fall asleep. 10% of respondents said this was the most irritating habit, as it makes road trips feel lonelier and longer than they actually are. This is annoying, but the passenger can't be blamed, especially if they're in a luxurious environment, like the reclining rear seats in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.

Possibly the rudest passenger habit, 10% of participants said passengers who use their smartphones to watch videos with the sound on are very distracting. Not only does it show a lack of respect for other occupants, but it can be very distracting. If you're guilty of this, use some headphones next time. It's the right thing to do.

Finally, the last 10% of people said someone who blocks mirrors is the worst passenger. "It's frustrating when the wing mirror is blocked by a passenger, especially when trying to turn a corner or reverse," said one participant. So, what does the perfect passenger look like? Most people want someone who provides engaging conversation yet isn't distracting, but others also say passengers who don't make a mess and help with directions are the best.

Can you think of any other distracting or annoying passenger habits? If so, let us know in the comments below.