National Highways tackles widespread tailgating with new campaign (video)

Tailgating is contributing to more than 140 people being killed or seriously injured on England’s motorways and A-roads each year, according to National Highways.

The Government agency says one in eight collisions on the strategic road network involve vehicles following too closely. In response, it has launched a new safety campaign: Too Close for Comfort? Stay Safe, Stay Back.

The campaign is based on behavioural research which shows that 60% of drivers feel anxious or stressed when being tailgated.

This reaction mirrors the discomfort people feel when their personal space is invaded in everyday situations such as queues or on public transport.

Despite the dangers, 43% of drivers admit to tailgating at least occasionally.

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.”

Drivers are being urged to leave at least a two-second gap between vehicles in dry conditions.

This should be doubled to four seconds when the road is wet. Tailgating is classed as careless driving and can result in a £100 fine and three penalty points.

Shaun Helman, chief scientist at TRL, said: “This campaign helps drivers relate road behaviours to everyday feelings of discomfort. It is a powerful tool for shifting habits.”

The campaign also features dashcam footage of real tailgating incidents submitted by police forces.

National Highways says the goal is not only to raise awareness but to prevent serious injuries and deaths through simple and consistent changes in driver behaviour.

The dashcam footage below is of a HGV tailgating on the M42 in Warwickshire was sent to Warwickshire Police as part of Operation Snap.