Drivers travelled more than 600 million miles last year just to avoid motorways, according to figures from the Automobile Association (AA).

Motorway-averse motorists used the AA’s online route planner to devise more than five million routes specifically to steer clear of motorways.

The routes average more than 125 miles and, stretched end to end, would extend around the world 24,000 times.

As many as nine per cent of AA members would benefit from a refresher or confidence training on motorway driving, according to an AA/Populus poll.

Those least confident about motorway driving are young drivers and women. Only 44 per cent of those aged 18-24 and only 44 per cent of women are comfortable driving on motorways. In contrast, 65 per cent of drivers aged 55-64 and 70 per cent of all male drivers were confident about their motorway abilities.

Driving too slowly, not merging safely when joining the motorway, and not observing safe following distances are the most commonly observed problems, according to AA Driving School instructors.

AA Driving School head of motorway driver development Mark Peacock said: “There is much evidence that motorways are our most feared and avoided roads, yet statistically they are safer than other roads.

“By steering clear of them, drivers not only face a longer, slower journey, but are potentially putting themselves at greater risk on A-roads.

“With help, many find they can quickly overcome their fears. Tailored motorway tuition with a fully-qualified instructor can help drivers build the skills and confidence to make our motorway network work for them.”