Mind the gap: motorway tailgating on increase

TAILGATING on motorways is increasing and more than half of motorists admit to driving too close to the vehicle in front, according to a survey published today.

Road safety charity Brake said the finding added weight to its opposition to increasing the motorway speed limit to 80mph. The group said 53 per cent of drivers admitted to what is regarded as one of the most dangerous motoring habits, compared with 49 per cent in 2004. Men were the worst culprits, with 61 per cent admitting tailgating, compared with 49 per cent of women.

Transport Scotland had planned a trial of the UK’s first vehicle-activated warning signs to deter the practice, but a spokeswoman revealed last night it had been scrapped because the signs were found to be ineffective.

UK Transport Secretary Justine Greening has hinted she may approve an 80mph limit on some stretches of motorway south of the Border.

ALASTAIR DALTON