The study, which involved over 12,500 motorists, showed that 25% of respondents admitted to knowing the rule but frequently disregarding it. In addition, 5% confessed they didn’t know about the guidance outlined in the Highway Code. This mirrors results from 2023, when similar patterns of unsafe driving behaviour persisted post-lockdown, suggesting little progress has been made.
Despite being widely condemned as one of the most aggravating habits on the road, tailgating remains alarmingly common. National Highways recently reported that 147 people were killed or suffered serious injuries on England’s major roads and motorways as a result of drivers following too closely.
Further statistics from the Department for Transport back up these findings. While the majority of drivers were observed maintaining a gap of two to four seconds in freely flowing traffic, around a quarter failed to leave even two seconds of space.
Further statistics from the Department for Transport back up these findings. While the majority of drivers were observed maintaining a gap of two to four seconds in freely flowing traffic, around a quarter failed to leave even two seconds of space.
Tim Rankin, Managing Director of AA Accident Assist, explained, “It seems driver behaviour towards tailgating remains unmoved, with it being an all too regular experience on the roads. Regardless of motorways or local streets, drivers feel intimidated by others following too close behind.
Our workload shows that bumpers and the technology within them are the most common repairs. As well as vehicle parts, personal injury claims due to tailgating related crashes are being made. In many cases, these crashes could be avoided simply by backing off from the car in front.
Nobody wants to spoil their summer holidays with an avoidable collision. By allowing at least a two-second gap between yourself and the car in front, you significantly reduce the risk of crashing into that vehicle. Similarly, if you are being tailgated, where safe to do so, pull over and let them pass. It is better to cut them loose rather than feel frustrated and try to slow them down."