Would just like to point out i don't actually live in Liverpool, New York
But yeah, the driving here is insane. Actually people barely bat an eyelid at driving 8hrs. Having said that, your typical 8hr drive here is one hell of a lot less stressful than even a 2hr drive in the UK. Bigger cars (in general) means its a bit more comfortable, the roads are bigger, with less traffic. I've done three 8+hr road trips since i've been here and they're actually not that bad.
Before i left i considered the 1hr20 trip around the M25 to see family as a major, major ball ache.