One in three drivers admit they tailgate, according to new National Highways research looking at driver behaviour on England’s motorways and major A-roads.
Following too closely contributes to around 8% of people killed or seriously injured on these routes each year, which is an average of 147 casualties annually.
It’s not a new issue, though. In fact, previous studies have found that as many as half of drivers admit they’ve tailgated at some point, while one-third acknowledge ignoring the ‘two-second rule’ altogether.
The Highway Code is clear on the rules – you must leave at least a two-second gap in normal conditions, and double that in wet or poor visibility.
Yet frustration, congestion and time pressure mean many drivers continue to close the gap, often believing it will save time.
Regionally, London and the South East recorded the highest proportion of drivers admitting to tailgating (41%), alongside the highest number of serious casualties.
While the picture nationally was that one in ten drivers rate their own road etiquette as poor.
Tailgating is illegal and typically carries a £100 fine and three penalty points and in more serious cases, penalties can escalate significantly.
But catching offenders is often left to traffic police to physically administer punishments, rather than automated cameras or tech.
For fleets, safe following distance is one of the simplest and most effective risk reduction measures available.
Clear policy, refresher training and telematics insight can all play a role in reducing rear-end collisions and protecting drivers.
