According to new research from Direct Line, our cars are facing the same issue as us mere mortals, they are getting wider!

The 20 most popular cars in 2018 (including the likes of Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus and Mini Cooper) had a whopping 17% wider body than the 20 most popular cars in 1998 – This included some classics like the Ford Mondeo, Vauxhall Cavalier and the Rover 214.

Edmund King, president at the AA, said: “There’s no doubt that we have noticed that on narrower roads we are getting more cars that hit the curb, and this is adding to break down claims.

“In the 1970s two Minis would easily fit down a country lane but if you put two modern style Minis down there now, they won’t fit.

“Part of the reason why cars are now made larger is psychological, as people feel safer in a bigger car. As technology has advanced cars are safer, and it is these protective technologies which mean that cars are larger.”

Rob Miles, director of car insurance at Direct Line, added: “This research shows that car shapes have changed dramatically over the past 20 years, though roads remain the same width, so it is becoming harder to manoeuvre modern cars on Britain’s roads.

“With the size of cars increasing, manoeuvres and parking may become more of a challenge. Bumps and scratches happen to even the best drivers, so motorists need to make sure their insurer covers unforeseen accidents. Motorists who do accidentally hit another vehicle should always make sure to leave their contact details.

Read the full story on the Telegraph website