Tailgating is a common issue for farmers when they take agricultural vehicles onto public roads and it can easily lead to accidents.
The new campaign, which takes inspiration from a very old computer game, tells road users: ‘don’t be a space invader’.
A short video, again based on the classic video game Space Invader, has been produced in support of the campaign and Highways England are dishing out free sticker packs that can be used on your own vehicle to raise awareness among other drivers.
The dedicated campaign website also sets out clear advice on what you should and shouldn’t do if you are being tailgated:
What you should do
- Just drive normally: The key is to not let the tailgater’s poor behaviour negatively influence your own driving. Simply continue to drive safely and cautiously, aware but not affected by their presence.
- Allow them to overtake: Keep a steady speed so they may overtake. Alternatively, pull to the side of the road, or turn off at a petrol station, but only if it is safe to do so.
- Clearly signal: Ensure the tailgater has a clear idea of your intentions by signalling early and changing your speed well in advance of a turn off.
What you shouldn't do
- Don’t speed up: Generally this will encourage the tailgater to speed up behind you. Continue to travel at a safe speed. Do not allow the pressure from the tailgater to influence you to drive unsafely.
- Don’t slow down: Intentionally slowing down to irritate the close follower or tapping the brake lights can trigger road rage and cause more dangerous scenarios to arise.
- Don’t stare in the rear-view mirror: It can be tempting to stare at the driver behind but can cause you to lose focus on what’s in front of you.