Ignoring this crucial driving rule could make you over 12% more likely to crash

Daily Mail​

08-07-2025

Are you guilty of ignoring a vital piece of safe driving guidance and annoying fellow drivers at the same time?
A third of motorists have now admitted to ignoring or being unaware of the two-second gap rule, a new study has found.
A prominent Highway Code rule, driving with a two second gap to the vehicle in front is the standard practice to maintain a safe following distance as this ensures adequate time to react to a sudden stop or changes in traffic.
But a poll of more than 12,500 drivers by AA Accident Assist has found that a quarter of motorists ignore the two-second instruction.
Similarly, one in 20 claimed they were unaware of the guidance set out in the Highway Code, putting themselves and other road users at greater risk of accidents by tailgating.
A new survey from AA Accident Assist has found that a third of drivers ignore or are unaware of the two-second gap rule between cars. one in eight casualties on England's roads are caused by tailgating
Highways England data shows that one in eight casualties on England's major routes are caused by drivers tailgating.
Many people consider tailgating one of the most annoying behaviours displayed by other road users, but that doesn't stop people from experiencing it far too frequently.
And it doesn't prevent tragic accidents from happening as a result of tailgating.
Official statistics from the Department for Transport confirm that it remains an ongoing problem: Last year a quarter of drivers were observed leaving a gap of less than two seconds in free-flow traffic.
Driving too close to the vehicle in front is also costing drivers a lot of money in repairs.
In 2024, 58 per cent of repairs carried out by the AA Accident Assist required a new bumper unit.
And as cars become more advanced with increased technology in their bumpers – from parking sensors to cruise control radar systems – it takes more time to repair and calibrate the car after a collision, costing drivers even more.
Tailgaters also waste money the more they brake and speed up, losing cash hand over fist on fuel inefficiency, as well as jeopardising their insurance premiums.
Tim Rankin, managing director of AA Accident Assist, said: '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.'
He goes on to recommend: '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.'
How many accidents does tailgating cause?
More than 100 people are killed or seriously injured every year in accidents caused by tailgating motorists.
The Highways England research also indicates that over 4,000 tailgating-related crashes occur annually, leading to more than 6,000 injuries.
As a result, the Highways England launched a campaign called 'Don't Be A Space Invader', using the classic arcade game to warn motorists about not leaving enough space.
Fronted by former Formula 1 world champion Nigel Mansell, it raises awareness of the dangers and help stamp out the issue.
Mansell said: 'Tailgating is a driving habit I utterly deplore. Not only is it aggressive and intimidating, but it can lead to a crash with a tragic outcome.'