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Working drivers are most likely to speed and
tailgate - 14th April 2008
Research has shown that drivers who are
working are more likely speed and drive too close to the vehicle
in front of them than other drivers increasing the risk of being
involved in
road accidents.
Driving too fast is known to be a
contributory factor in 27% of UK road deaths.
Tailgating is a major cause of
road accidents, with it being a contributory factor in 54
fatalities in 2006, with motorways being a regular hotspot.
Whiplash injuries are common from accidents where tailgating
is involved. The research carried out by the road safety charity
Brake and
Green Flag found many
working drivers feel under pressure to get to their destinations
fast, so drive faster and often tailgate, thus increasing their
chances of being involved in
road accidents.
16% of working drivers compared to 6% of
other drivers admit to driving 35mph in a 30mph zone every day.
9% of working drivers have driven over 80mph
every day on motorways or duel carriageways compared with 2% of
other drivers.
14% of working drivers compared with 6% of
other drivers have admitted leaving less than a two second gap
whilst driving on motorways several times a week.
The greater our speed when driving the less
time we have to react.
The closer we are to the vehicle in front
the less time we have to react.
Always leave enough room between your
vehicle and the one in front to stop safely, and don't forget to
double this distance when the roads are wet and even more
distance on icy roads.
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