Tempers can easily become frayed for individuals cooped up in a car for long periods, but there are ways to diffuse the situation.

According to new research published as part of its latest AA-Populus poll, 65 per cent of UK motorists regularly get into arguments when in the car, with 18 to 24-year-olds the most likely group to make this claim (73 per cent), compared to 60 per cent of over-65s.

Moreover, the top causes of frustration for both drivers and passengers were highlighted by the research as including getting lost, driving too fast, not asking for directions when needed, noisy children, differences of opinion with passengers, driving too slowly, shouting at other drivers and even the temperature within the vehicle.

All of these factors can combine to turn a sedate drive into a warzone, so drivers need to be aware of the usual triggers for arguments and actively look to avoid them in order to both stay safe and get to their destination with as little stress as possible.

AA president Edmund King commented: "Long journeys often get fraught at times. The key thing is taking time to prepare well for the journey, which should help keep arguments at bay.

"Making sure that younger passengers are entertained will help keep them quiet … Plan some picnic stops to break up long journeys and check over your car before you set off. 

"A previous AA survey found that car occupants are the biggest distraction for drivers, so it is worth keeping your passengers happy so that the driver can concentrate on the road ahead."

Developing a positive attitude to getting behind the wheel can go a long way towards helping people to stay calm when heading out onto the roads, so motorists wishing to avoid arguments should follow a number of useful tips.

Remember to focus fully on the task of driving and try not to get distracted by passengers, as this will not only lead to improvements in road safety, but will also make it clear to all those in the car that the driver needs to pay their full attention to the road. This can help to head off any arguments before they even begin.

Meanwhile, set off earlier to avoid rushing and unnecessary stress during the journey, while being patient with other road users can also help to ensure drivers do not get too hot under the collar regarding their behaviour. Stay calm and think logically at all times, don't let other drivers' actions start an argument and always be courteous so as to avoid any incidents of road rage.

Indeed, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents states recognising the early signs of road rage can help drivers to avoid this dangerous behaviour.

Drivers should remember to take deep breaths if they feel they are becoming agitated at the wheel, as this can help them to calm down and forget about any incidents that may exacerbate their frustrations.