‘Two second rule’ millions of drivers don’t know could see YOU avoid £100 fine, National Highways warns – know the rules
BRIT drivers are being urged to follow an important ‘two-second rule' while behind the wheel - or risk a £100 fine.
National Highways, which manages motorways and major A roads across the UK, has warned motorists about tailgating, describing it as the “single biggest issue that drivers find irritating or intimidating".
While some drivers do it without realising, others might decide to close up on the car in front of them if they get cut-up, or if they’re angered in some other way.
However, the rule is firm; motorists must keep a safe distance from the car in front to reduce the risk of an accident.
On this, the Highway Code advises a two-second gap between vehicles on fast roads, to allow for thinking and stopping time.
To apply the rule, pick a fixed object ahead and say: "Only a fool breaks the two-second rule."
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Then, if you reach the object before finishing the phrase, you're too close.
What's more, in rain or icy conditions, the gap is doubled, while larger vehicles also need bigger gaps.
Naturally, tailgating is illegal and can result in fines and penalties.
Rule 126 of the Highway Code states that dangerous driving, including tailgating, is enforced by the police, and if a driver is caught doing it, they can face a £100 fine and three penalty points.
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This comes as drivers have been warned they don't even need to be inside their vehicle to break a serious driving law this Christmas.
As the festive season approaches, car owners are being encouraged to leave their keys at home if they’re thinking about getting into the spirit of things.
Of course, everyone already knows that drivers shouldn't drive while over the limit, but there are also some lesser-known laws when it comes to alcohol.
One such rule could even see people punished by police if they are not driving or even in their car.
If officers spot someone sitting in their car with the keys in the ignition, or even standing next to their vehicle car with the keys in their hand, they may believe there is an intention to drive while drunk.
In these circumstances, motorists can be prosecuted for drink-driving - serving as a reminder that Christmas partygoers should stay away from their cars.
Elsewhere, staff working for a major car dealership group risk losing their jobs just weeks before Christmas after the closure of a BMW showroom.
The Dorchester-based outlet shut its doors for the final time on Friday after it was deemed "not viable" due to rising costs.
Owned by Vertu Motors, the stylish showroom employed a small workforce of 12 people - with some now facing the prospect of redundancy just before Christmas.
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According to the , some staff members will be transferred to Vertu’s BMW dealership in Yeovil - around 25 miles away.
In an email to customers, Vertu revealed that their details were being passed on to the Yeovil site as part of the changeover.
