Tailgating remains a significant safety issue on Britain’s roads, contributing to an average of 147 people being killed or seriously injured each year on motorways and major A-roads, according to National Highways.

Despite widespread awareness campaigns and clear guidance from the Highway Code, the practice of following too closely behind another vehicle remains commonplace.

Official statistics from the Department for Transport (DfT) confirm that tailgating persists as a widespread problem, especially in free-flowing traffic.

Too close

In the most recent DfT analysis of motorway driving behaviour, most motorists were seen leaving a two- to four-second gap between vehicles.

However, it’s concerning that around a quarter of drivers left a gap of less than two seconds, the minimum recommended safe distance.

Driving too close significantly increases the risk of rear-end collisions, particularly at higher speeds where reaction time is critical.

Gaps in awareness and compliance

New research conducted by AA Accident Assist highlights a concerning gap between knowledge and behaviour.

In a poll of over 12,500 drivers, a third (33%) admitted to either ignoring or being unaware of the two-second rule altogether.

Specifically, one in four (25%) acknowledged knowing about the guidance but admitted to regularly ignoring it, while one in twenty (5%) claimed they were entirely unaware of it.

This mirrors findings from 2023, when AA Accident Assist identified a spike in poor driving habits following the easing of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions.

Tailgating, in particular, was identified as one of the most frustrating behaviours experienced by drivers on UK roads.

Tim Rankin, managing director of AA Accident Assist, expressed disappointment over the persistent issue: “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.”

Crashes and costs 

The consequences of tailgating are not only felt in human casualties but also in mounting financial costs.

In 2024, a staggering 58% of vehicle repairs handled by AA Accident Assist required a new bumper, often the first point of contact in a rear-end collision.

Modern vehicles are increasingly equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems such as parking sensors, rear cameras, and adaptive cruise control radars—many of which are embedded in the bumper.

As a result, even a minor crash can result in expensive and time-consuming repairs.

“Not only are bumpers commonly damaged, but the embedded technology also requires calibration after an accident, further adding to costs,” Rankin explained.

“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 the car in front.”

New targets 

In response to the ongoing danger, National Highways has launched a new public safety campaign titled ‘Too Close for Comfort? Stay Safe, Stay Back’.

The campaign aims to increase awareness about the dangers of tailgating and encourage safer driving habits.

Sheena Hague, director of road safety at National Highways, said: “Tailgating is not just frustrating, it is dangerous. Most people would not stand too close in a queue or walk on someone’s heels, yet this is what we often see on our roads.”

Tailgating is classified as careless driving under UK law and can result in a £100 fine and three penalty points on a driver’s licence.

The Highway Code clearly advises drivers to maintain a minimum of a two-second gap from the vehicle in front, and a longer gap in wet or icy conditions.

Rankin added: “By allowing at least a two-second gap, you significantly reduce the risk of crashing. And if someone is tailgating you, the safest option is to let them pass, not to escalate the situation.”

With road safety authorities and driving organisations sounding the alarm, tailgating is once again under the spotlight, highlighting the need for both education and enforcement to protect all road users.