The '2-second distance' rule may be unknown to many drivers.
A new study reveals that up to one-third of drivers admit to ignoring or even being unaware of the "two-second distance" rule – one of the most important safety principles when driving.
According to the Road Traffic Code, drivers need to maintain a minimum distance of 2 seconds from the vehicle in front to ensure sufficient reaction time in situations involving sudden braking or unexpected changes in traffic. However, a survey of over 12,500 people conducted by AA Accident Assist (UK) revealed that 25% of drivers regularly ignore this instruction.
In fact, one in 20 people are completely unaware of this rule, putting them and those around them at a higher risk of traffic accidents when driving too close to the vehicle in front.
Statistics from the UK Roads Authority indicate that one in eight accidents on the main roads is caused by tailgating. Although many consider this behavior dangerous and annoying, it remains very common in practice.
According to the UK Department of Transport, in the past year, a quarter of drivers recorded failed to maintain the minimum two-second distance when driving on open roads.
Not only is tailgating dangerous, but it also leads to significant financial damage. In 2024, 58% of repairs handled by AA Accident Assist involved replacing the bumper. The increasing integration of technologies like parking sensors and radar systems makes repairs more expensive and time-consuming.
In addition, drivers waste more fuel due to constant braking and acceleration, negatively impacting fuel consumption and insurance premiums.
Tim Rankin, Director of AA Accident Assist, shared: “Tapering seems to have become commonplace on the road, causing many drivers anxiety. Whether on the highway or in the city, being followed closely always makes drivers lose their composure.”
He recommended: "Maintain a 2-second distance from the vehicle in front to minimize the risk of a traffic collision. If another vehicle is following closely, pull over or yield when possible. Staying away from them is always better than confronting them."
Hundreds of people die or are seriously injured each year in tailgating accidents. The UK's Highways Authority estimates around 4,000 such accidents annually, resulting in over 6,000 injuries.
In response to this situation, the governing body launched the "Don't Be an Intruder in Airspace" campaign, with the support of former F1 champion Nigel Mansell. Mansell emphasized: "I strongly oppose tailgating while driving. It is aggressive, frightening, and has potentially catastrophic consequences."
