More than a third of drivers are unaware of or choose to ignore the two-second rule according to research by the AA.
The rule, which is in place to prevent tailgating and multi-vehicle shunts means that there should always be a two-second gap between vehicles to minimise the chance of road traffic accidents.
According to data from the AA, a driver’s lack of adherence to the two-second distance rule has particularly negative consequences in the Winter. If the rule is not adhere to, drivers may be seen to be driving carelessly which can result in a fine, points on your licence, or even a court appearance.
AA Accident Assist data shows that accidents caused by cars driving too close to vehicles in front and failing to stop in time increase by a quarter. Worse still, more than 10% of rear-end crashes lead to concertina shunts, involving at least three vehicles.
Meanwhile, statistics by the Department of Transport show that a fifth of car drivers are driving unsafely and irresponsibly by ignoring the Highway Code’s two-second rule for a safe distance between cars.
Tim Rankin, managing director of AA Accident Assist said: “We’re coming to the time of year where playing fast and loose with a safe distance from the vehicle in front is much more likely to end in disaster.
“If you crash into the back of someone or hear a vehicle being hit further behind, we now know that there is more than a one in 10 chance that the impact will lead to a shunt down a line of cars.
“Applying the handbrake when stationary is the companion to following the two-second rule. Both prevent needless damage and injury, particularly whiplash and worse for older and more fragile car occupants.”
The data also revealed if you crash into the back of someone or hear a vehicle being hit further behind, there is more than a one in 10 chance that the impact will lead to a shunt down a line of cars.
What is the two-second rule?
The Highway Code tells drivers to allow at least a two-second gap between you and the vehicle in front on roads carrying faster-moving traffic and in tunnels where visibility is reduced.
The gap should be wider as speeds increase. It rises to 2.4 seconds – about 53 metres – when driving at 50mph and 3.1 seconds – or 96 metres – at 70mph. Furthermore, the gap should be at least doubled on wet roads and increased still further on icy roads.
To use the rule, drivers should allow the vehicle in front to pass a fixed object such as a lamp post or road sign then count to two seconds. If they reach two seconds before reaching the reference marker they need to drop back.
Careless driving punishments
Driving too close to another vehicle can lead to prosecution for ‘driving without due care and attention’.
This offence carries a minimum fine of £100 and three penalty points and in some cases more severe penalties or a court appearance.
Further reading
Accidents on the road – Oakwood Scotland Solicitors
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