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With fuel prices remaining high, police officers and their families are feeling the rising cost of everyday travel, from commuting and school runs to unpredictable shift patterns. The good news is that small habits can make a meaningful difference, without needing to change your car.
1. Drive smoothly whenever conditions allow
Sharp acceleration and heavy braking use more fuel. Where it’s safe to do so, steady, controlled driving helps reduce costs.
Why it matters: Smoother driving can significantly improve fuel efficiency over time.
2. Keep tyre pressures correctly inflated
Under‑inflated tyres make the engine work harder and increase fuel use.
Practical tip: Check once a month or before longer journeys. This is especially important if your driving patterns change week to week.
3. Avoid carrying unnecessary weight
Items left in the boot, such as work gear, bags, equipment all add fuel cost over time.
Simple habit: Clear out anything you don’t need for day‑to‑day driving.
4. Reduce drag from roof racks or boxes
Roof racks increase wind resistance, even when empty.
Fuel‑saving tip: Remove them when not in use, particularly if most of your miles are at higher speeds.
5. Use air conditioning thoughtfully
Air conditioning is useful, but it does increase fuel consumption, especially during short trips.
Balance: Use it when needed, but avoid leaving it on by default.
6. Stick to efficient cruising speeds
Driving faster than necessary increases fuel use and wear on your vehicle.
Best range for efficiency: Around 45–60 mph, where road conditions allow.
7. Combine shorter trips where possible
Cold engines use more fuel. Several short journeys often cost more than one planned route.
Helpful for families: With shift patterns changing week to week, it’s not always easy, but where possible, combining school runs, errands, and appointments into one journey can reduce fuel costs.
8. Avoid unnecessary idling
If you’re stationary for more than a minute, switching off the engine usually saves fuel.
Common example: Waiting outside schools, shops, or appointments.
9. Keep on top of basic vehicle maintenance
Poor servicing reduces efficiency and increases fuel use.
Key checks: Engine oil, tyre condition, air filters.
10. Make sure your insurance still reflects how you drive
Many police families adjust mileage due to shift changes, remote work, or car sharing. If your annual mileage has changed, your insurance may no longer reflect your real usage.
Worth reviewing:
Lower mileage can sometimes mean lower risk and potentially lower premiums.
A final word
Taking a few simple steps like these won’t eliminate fuel costs, but they can make day-to-day driving more efficient and predictable. Something that matters when schedules are already demanding.
Police Mutual offers Car Insurance designed with the needs of police officers, staff, and their families in mind. To find out more and see if it’s right for you, take a look at our car insurance options today.
You can either call us on 0151 242 7640 or go online at policemutual.co.uk/car
Police Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.
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