It's one of the most dangerous driving habits committed on the road - but tailgating could cost you £100.

Tailgating is when you're not keeping a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front.

Often you'll hear someone say 'they're on my tail' - this is tailgating.

The measure of 'safe distance' depends on the speed at which you are travelling, visibility and other road conditions.

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It's often used to 'bully' drivers into pulling in to let the faster driver overtake, however doing so puts both parties in danger.

And should there be an emergency that requires the driver in front to brake quickly, it is unlikely that the driver behind would be able to avoid a collision.

However, tailgating falls under the careless driving offence and could land you with a £100 charge and three penalty points on your licence.

Should a serious collision occur because of tailgating, penalties can result in a driving ban or even a prison sentence.

The RAC recommend you do the following if you're being tailgated.

  • Try to stay calm. Drivers getting angry over tailgating incidents is a common cause of road rage.
  • Assess your speed. Are you driving too slowly in the outside lane? If so, move over as soon as it is safe to do so.
  • Look at your own driving habits and brush up on your Highway Code if you are regularly being tailgated. Ensure you aren’t also at fault.
  • Your best to make a dangerous situation as safe as possible