A spokesperson for Continental Tyres which carried

It's not good news for gamers. No matter how much time you spend racing around tracks on Gran Turismo 5, it won't make you a better driver.
In fact researchers have now discovered that when you get behind a real wheel you're actually more likely to crash and generally drive dangerously.

Game-playing motorists were also found to run more red lights, attempt dodgy over-taking moves and suffer from road rage.

The study, which compared the driving skill of2,000 gaming and non-gaming drivers found gamers thought they had superior reaction times and understanding of car dynamics.

However, they actually just had a heavier right foot and more results… they also has sore thumbs from excessive gaming.

A spokesperson for Continental Tyres which carried out the study, said: "It seems that while gamers develop useful skills and are more confident, they need to apply some balance with a sensible assessment of risk.

"Playing computer driving games means good concentration levels and improved reaction times, however, they can take more risks than non-gaming drivers, possibly due to the lack of real consequences in games.

"The most important issues for driving safely are concentration, an appreciation of road and vehicle conditions and an awareness of potential risks.