Latest figures show more than 130 people were killed or seriously injured on England’s roads in incidents involving people driving too close in 2018.
Now, Highways England has launched a campaign to deter tailgaters. Using the well-known Space Invader video game character to alert drivers to the anti-social nature and risks of tailgating, motorists are being urged to “stay safe, stay back”.
“We’ve got used to social distancing during the pandemic,” said Mark Byard, Director of Health, Safety and Wellbeing at Highways England.
“Now we’re reminding you to also keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Good drivers leave plenty of safe space for themselves and others. But driving too close is dangerous, can be intimidating and can cause collisions that could be avoided.”
The Highway Code states that drivers should allow at least a two second gap between you and the vehicle in front on roads carrying faster-moving traffic, and the gap should be at least doubled on wet roads and increased further on icy roads or when visibility is poor.
Tailgating is an offence of driving without due care and attention, carrying a minimum £100 fine and penalty points and in some cases more severe penalties or court appearance.
