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A poll has found that more than half of drivers think that bad driving is increasing on our roads.
According to a recent AA Accident Assist poll, 55% of drivers believe that tailgating incidents are on the rise. The survey, which included responses from over 12,700 drivers, also indicated an increase in other problematic behaviors like speeding and occupying the middle lane unnecessarily. Earlier, the AA had reported that a third of drivers admitted to not adhering to the recommended two-second following distance. Tailgating has been observed not only at high speeds but also in congested and stationary traffic conditions.
The findings come as AA Accident Assist reveals that they helped more than 16,000 drivers involved in rear end crashes in 2023, and around 5,600 drivers so far this year. With a busy summer expected across UK roads, drivers are being advised to keep their distance as they head off to their holiday destinations.
"Creating at least a two-second gap can help prevent crashes but could also reduce outbursts of road rage."
Tim Rankin, managing director of AA Accident Assist
1. Tailgating – 55%
2. Speeding – 53%
3. Middle lane hogging – 52%
4. Overtaking on the inside/left – 51%
5. Road rage – 46%
6. Mobile phone use – 44%
As part of their Motoring Manifesto5, The AA is calling for more road traffic officers to improve the standard of driving on UK roads. More traffic officers will be able to stop bad driving practices in real time, but having a more visible police presence on the roads will in itself act as a deterrent. At the moment, some feel they can get away with certain activities such as using a hand-held mobile phone because their chances of being caught are slim.
Tim Rankin, managing director of AA Accident Assist, said; “Drivers are worried that the standard of driving is slipping. As well as making sure we drive responsibly, we also need a more visible police presence to keep those willing to misbehave in check.
“It is not a shock that tailgating comes top of the list of behaviours worsening on our roads. Indeed, we know that there is a strong chance that a rear-end collisions can turn into a ‘concertina collision’ where numerous vehicles are damaged.
“As we head into summer, we encourage drivers to allow more space between themselves and other vehicles. Creating at least a two-second gap can help prevent crashes but could also reduce outbursts of road rage.”
