A recent study carried out by motor insurers 1st Central was based on more than 1m drivers and sheds new light on the link between driving standards and occupation.

So how do you fair in these lists;

 Top 10 worst drivers by profession

• Engineer
• Mechanic
• Estate agent
• Travel agent
• IT consultant
• Hospital worker (non-medical)
• Accountant
• Debt collector
• Hospital doctor
• Psychotherapist

Top 10 safest drivers by profession

• Administrator
• Painter
• Farmer
• Fashion designer
• Carpet fitter
• Builder
• Cleaner
• Baker
• Dinner lady
• Caretaker

The lists make interesting reading.

To give you some comparison of the statistics, engineers, the top of the worst drivers list, were involved in 125,000 accidents in the last 12 months whereas administrators, the top of the safest drivers list, were involved in only 4,500 accidents. That means engineers are 15 times more likely to be in an accidents than administrators

It is also surprising, given their reputation as careful and considered people, to see doctors, accountants and psychotherapists featured among the UK’s top 10 worst drivers.

Where ever you came in these lists it is always a good idea to review you driving habits from time to time and think about how you could become a safer driver, particularly if your occupation involves a lot of driving.

 Here are a few safety tips:

1. Always observe the speed limit
2. Keep a safe distance between you and the car in front
3. Slowdown in adverse weather conditions
4. Don’t ever text and drive
5. Always wear your seatbelt
6. Watch out for other drivers and think ahead
7. Don’t drive if you feel drowsy or unwell
8. Keep focused on your driving and not distracted by loud music or rowdy passengers

Many of these tips are common sense but it surprising how many people ignore them when they are out and about.