Motorists must follow the ‘two-second rule’ while behind the wheel (Image: Getty)
Motorists could be slapped with a and penalty points on their for breaking a little-known while behind the wheel.
Driving too closely to other road users, , may appear harmless but could backfire and land ahead of Christmas.
has warned that tailgating is a safety risk, with the move playing a role in one in eight crashes on the road network.
It also stressed that that drivers find irritating about other motorists on the road.
In a bid to avoid incidents or confrontations while behind the wheel, road users are urged to keep a minimum of a two-second gap to the car ahead.
Tailgating can land motorists with fines and penalty points (Image: Getty)
However, with traffic increasing this December as the Christmas getaway begins, keeping to the margins may be harder than usual.
National Highways explained: “It’s easy to tailgate others unintentionally. For example, you may be cut up by another vehicle or misjudge the speed of the vehicle in front.
“The Highway Code says you should ‘allow at least a two-second gap between you and the vehicle in front on roads carrying faster moving traffic’. This is made up of the time needed for thinking and stopping.
“To apply the ‘two-second rule’ while driving behind another vehicle, choose a static object ahead, such as a bridge, tree or road sign.
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“When the vehicle ahead passes the object, say to yourself, ‘Only a fool breaks the two-second rule.’ If you reach the object before you finish saying it, you’re too close and need to drop back.”
However, officials warn that road users must double the gap if travelling in wet weather or on icy roads.
Meanwhile, motorists of larger vehicles such as HGVS will also need to allow for greater stopping distances to stay safe.
National Highways has reiterated that road users found to be tailgating could be considered to be driving without due care and attention.
In most cases, individuals will be hit with a £100 charge and three penalty points on their licence.
National Highways added: “Being tailgated by another vehicle can make you feel intimidated, scared and bullied. While it may not be intentional by the driver behind, it can feel aggressive and personal.
“But reacting negatively to tailgaters can create further problems, so it’s important to stay calm and remain in control of your vehicle.”