National Highways launches anti-tailgating campaign

National Highways has launched ‘Too close for comfort? Stay safe, stay back’, a campaign intended to stop drivers tailgating.

Every year, an average of 147 people are seriously injured or killed as a result of tailgating on motorways and major A-roads.

43% of drivers admitted to tailgating occasionally, while 60% said they feel anxious when tailgated.

The campaign released a YouTube video, which likened tailgating to invading someone’s personal space.

Shaun Helman, chief scientist at the Transport Research Laboratory, said: “By tapping into the universal discomfort many of us feel around an invasion of our personal space, we’re not just advising drivers what to do; we’re giving them a relatable life experience to help understand the impact of their actions and encouraging a lasting shift towards more mindful and safer driving behaviours.”

National Highways suggested maintaining a two second gap behind the vehicle in front, doubling the gap in wet conditions, and increasing it even more when roads are icy.

Drivers caught tailgating by the police can be fined £100, and receive three points on their licence.

Sheena Hague, director of road safety at National Highways, said: “Tailgating isn’t just irritating; it’s intimidating and dangerous.