9 July 2025
A third (33%1) of drivers are still ignoring or are an unaware of the ‘two-second’ gap rule, according to a recent survey by AA Accident Assist.
The poll of more than 12,500 drivers found that a quarter (25%) claimed that they knew of the two-second gap rule but often ignored it. Similarly, one in 20 (5%) claimed that they were unaware of the guidance set out in the Highway Code2. Previous research by AA Accident Assist from 2023 shows similar results when many drivers exhibited particularly bad driving behaviour after coming out of lockdown3, showing this stubbornly reckless behaviour hasn't improved.
Tailgating is often cited as the most frustrating behaviour displayed but other road users, yet it is experienced far too frequently. Recent figures from National Highways show that 147 people were killed or seriously injured on England's motorways and major A-roads due to tailgating4.
“Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.”
Source: The Highway Code – Rule 126, Department for Transport, GOV.UK
Licence:https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3/
Official statistics from the Department for Transport5, also confirm that tailgating remains an ongoing problem. Last year most car drivers were observed leaving a two to four second gap in free-flow traffic, while a quarter left a gap of less than two seconds.
"drivers feel intimidated by others following too close behind"
Drivers unwilling to keep their distance run the risk of crashing into the vehicle in front of them. In 2024, 58% of repairs carried out by AA Accident Assist required a new bumper unit6. As vehicles become more advanced, increased technology is often found within the bumpers. Parking sensors, cameras and cruise control radar systems often need repair and calibration which adds to the cost and time needed to fix the car after a collision.
As well as jeopardising their insurance premiums, tailgaters waste money hand over fist from the impact of braking and speeding up on fuel efficiency.
Tim Rankin, managing director of AA Accident Assist, said; “It seems driver behaviour towards tailgating remains unmoved, with it being an all too regular experience on the roads. Regardless of motorways or local streets, drivers feel intimidated by others following too close behind.
“Our workload shows that bumpers and the technology within them are the most common repairs. As well as vehicle parts, personal injury claims due to tailgating related crashes are being made. In many cases, these crashes could be avoided simply by backing off the car in front.
“Nobody wants to spoil their summer holidays with an avoidable collision. By allowing at least a two-second gap between yourself and the car in front, you significantly reduce the risk of crashing into that vehicle. Similarly, if you are being tailgated, where safe to do so, pull over and let them pass. It is better to cut them loose rather than feel frustrated and try to slow them down."
- Yonder received 12,727 responses from AA members to its online poll between the 10th to 18th June 2025. Yonder is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules.
- Rule 126 taken from The Highway Code The Highway Code - General rules, techniques and advice for all drivers and riders (103 to 158) - Guidance - GOV.UK
- Drivers Ignore The Two Second Gap Rule | AA
- Too Close for Comfort? Stay Safe, Stay Back. - National Highways
- Vehicle speed compliance statistics for Great Britain: 2024 - GOV.UK
- Wires Beat Bumpers For Car Repairs 2024 | AA