Two of the biggest problems on our motorways, middle lane hogging can create serious road safety issues as well as congestion and delays while tailgating can be intimidating for the victim and lead to accidents.*
However, the latest survey from National Highways reveals that one in three of us (32%) admit to sticking in the middle lane on our most recent journey while one in four motorists (23%) admit to tailgating.
High price
According to 2022 data from the Department for Transport, 6,730 people were seriously injured and 198 people killed where tailgating played a role in the crash. In fact, it’s estimated that tailgating is a contributing factor in 1 in 8 motorway collisions.
“The fact nearly one-in-four drivers surveyed admit to [tailgating] on some of England’s fastest and busiest roads is frightening.”
Rod Dennis, RAC road safety spokesperson
New campaign
This epidemic of tailgating and lane hogging has led to National Highways launching a new campaign: ‘Little changes, change everything’. The campaign underlines why it’s so important drivers adhere to the Highway Code’s rules on both issues:
“Staying in a middle lane disrupts traffic flow and can be dangerous, causing congestion and increasing the risk of a collision.”Rule 264, Highway Code
“Allow at least a two second gap between you and the vehicle in front on roads carrying faster moving traffic. The gap should be at least doubled on wet roads and up to ten times greater on icy roads.”Rule 126, Highway Code
“Our campaign aims to motivate motorists to embrace little changes, which will have an overall positive effect on both them and their fellow road users, reduce congestion and keep traffic flowing. The message is simple – always allow plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front, and unless overtaking move into the left-hand lane.”
• Sheena Hague, Director of Road Safety, National Highways
What to expect
If you are caught either middle-lane hogging or tailgating, the police can hand out an on-the-spot fine of £100 as well as three penalty points on your driving licence.
*The Highway Code states that tailgating is “where the gap between you and the vehicle in front is too small for you to be able to stop safely if the vehicle in front suddenly brakes.”
Know Your Code
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