Motion Sickness Among Russian Drivers and Passengers: A Detailed Look
According to a study, about one in three Russians experience motion sickness in transportation, a figure that translates to roughly 30 percent. This data comes from a survey conducted by SberEapteka and SberAvto. The findings reveal that among those affected, a majority feel unwell as passengers in the front seat, while a significant portion experiences symptoms even while driving themselves. Specifically, 71 percent report discomfort in the passenger seat, and 29 percent notice symptoms when they take control of the vehicle.
Further breakdown shows that motion sickness is not rare for some. About one in six people experience it intermittently, at a rate of 15 percent, and nine percent report symptoms only during longer journeys. These numbers paint a clear picture: motion sickness is a notable concern for a sizable segment of the driving public.
Causes
Many Russians believe the severity of motion sickness is influenced by the driver’s skill. Roughly 31 percent attribute milder symptoms to smooth driving. Others point to situational factors: 13 percent say traffic jams intensify motion sickness, 4 percent think it worsens when a vehicle is in poor mechanical condition, and another 4 percent link it to budget cars. These perspectives show how people link the experience to both driving style and car characteristics, shaping how they respond to discomfort on the road.
Symptoms
The most common symptom reported is nausea, with 45 percent of respondents experiencing it. Beyond that, several related effects appear, including general weakness at 29 percent, dizziness at 22 percent, a gagging sensation at 11 percent, headaches at 9 percent, and heart palpitations at 7 percent. The combination of these symptoms illustrates how motion sickness can challenge daily travel and affect overall well-being on the road.
How they fight
People manage motion sickness in assorted ways. About 28 percent report no symptoms at all while traveling. A quarter of respondents prefer to stop when possible to get fresh air, and 24 percent do so by stepping out for a breather. Some adopt cognitive and behavioral strategies: 19 percent avoid looking at the phone or a book while driving, 16 percent choose to sit in the front seat, and many opt for mints or chewing gum to help ease sensations. Medication is used by a smaller share, with 9 percent taking remedies for motion sickness and 8 percent avoiding heavy meals before long trips.
When it comes to remedies, antiemetics are the most commonly chosen option during episodes, used by 10 percent of respondents. Antihistamines and tranquilizers each register at about 4 percent, indicating a modest reliance on these categories of medicine across the surveyed population.
Overall, the survey reflects a broad spectrum of experiences and coping strategies that people employ to minimize discomfort while traveling. The insights emphasize that practical steps—like taking breaks, reducing screen time, or choosing seating that offers the best view of the road—can play a meaningful role in alleviating symptoms for many travelers.
The survey was conducted in December 2022, involving 1,100 motorists across Russia.
Photo: Depositphotos
Vote – win Lada!
Participants are invited to take part in the Behind the Wheel Grand Prix vote to help select the year’s best car novelties. As a thank you for their time, a drawing will award three frets to survey respondents who complete the questionnaire by the end of February 2023. This call to participate aligns with ongoing interest in new automotive designs and how they might influence driving comfort and motion experiences.