A survey by Sainsbury’s car insurance has revealed some of the perils involved when parents drive their children on the daily school run.

The survey found that as many as 8% of school run drivers had an accident while delivering or picking up children in the last five years. When it comes to ensuring children are safely ‘belted up’ the survey also found an alarming lack of precautions been adhered to with 15% of recipients admitting to having driven a youngster to school without the child being properly restrained in the vehicle.

Excuses for sometimes erratic driving were fear of being late for work, school or an appointment. Traffic congestion and being distracted by children were also reasons given for poor driving.

The picture painted of the perils of the school run will be familiar for many residents who live near schools. Typically roads in and around round schools, come school run times, are a hive of frenetic going ons with cars and parents vying to deliver their kids to schools amidst a Darwinian landscape of 4x4s, lollypop ladies and an overabundance of pygmies been led by parents.  The tension in the air is tangible.

Sainsbury's Car Insurance manager Joanne Mallon said:  "The school run can be very stressful for drivers. Busy roads, children being noisy in the back seat, and the worry of being late for school or work can all lead to stress that can affect people's driving. What is most concerning about our findings is that a significant number of people are currently not ensuring their children are properly secured in the car."