National Highways Urges Drivers to Leave More Space as Tailgating Persists

National Highways has launched the next phase of its road safety campaign encouraging motorists to leave more space between vehicles, after new research revealed widespread tailgating and declining driving etiquette across England.

The findings suggest that pressure, stress and tight schedules are contributing to risky behaviours, particularly on motorways and major A-roads. An estimated 4.9 million drivers admit their manners deteriorate when they are under pressure, especially if they are running late.

Around 10 million say they sometimes follow too closely unintentionally, while 2.4 million confess to deliberately closing the gap to push slower drivers to speed up.

Running late was cited as the biggest trigger for poor driving behaviour by 27% of respondents, followed by tiredness.

National Highways has also produced a regional “manners map” analysing driver attitudes. The South West recorded the strongest score for considerate driving, followed by the North West. London and the South East ranked lowest, with the Midlands and East of England also falling below the national average.

The safety implications are significant. Following too closely contributes to around 8% of people killed or seriously injured (KSI) each year on England’s motorways and major A-roads. Based on five years of data between 2016 and 2023 (excluding 2020 and 2021), this equates to an average of approximately 147 people annually.

Colin Stevenson, Road Safety Information Lead at National Highways, said tailgating reduces reaction time and increases collision risk. He urged drivers to follow the two-second rule, doubling it in wet or poor visibility conditions.

Behavioural psychologist Dr Neale Kinnear said drivers often overestimate the time saved by driving aggressively, adding that leaving space reduces stress and improves traffic flow.

Tailgating is illegal and can result in a £100 fine and three penalty points. National Highways hopes the renewed campaign will reinforce that leaving space is a simple action that improves safety for everyone.