National Highways targets lane hogging and tailgating

The initiative follows statistics released by the agency which detailed motorists' driving habits.

It showed approximately one in three drivers have confessed to hogging the middle lane.

While one in four acknowledged to tailgating on some of England’s busiest motorways and A roads.

According to a survey conducted by Ipsos UK, on behalf of National Highways, the rate of these unwanted driving habits was rather high.

32 per cent of the respondents admitted to engaging in lane hogging occasionally, while 23 per cent confirmed that they have tailgated at one point or another.

These behaviours not only exacerbate road rage among drivers but also significantly increase the risk of traffic accidents.

The survey unveiled that during their most recent journey, 34 per cent of drivers identified instance of middle lane hogging, causing widespread frustration and anger.

Additionally, with close to seventy per cent, or 67 per cent of adults, acknowledging tailgating as severe problem on England's roads, the issue has fast become a national concern.

The campaign titled 'Little Changes, Change Everything', is using a variety of platforms to get its message across.

This includes radio and television slots, podcasts, billboards, posters at service stations and social media posts.

All of which are part of the strategy aimed at educating drivers on the potential hazards these habits pose.

National Highways director of road safety, Sheena Hague said: "Bad habits can make driving on our motorways a challenging experience, as those who lane hog or tailgate frustrate other drivers and make them feel unsafe.

"Both are dangerous and can cause accidents.

"Our campaign aims to motivate motorists to embrace little changes, which will have an overall positive effect on both them and their fellow road users, reduce congestion and keep traffic flowing.

"The message is simple – always allow plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front, and unless overtaking move into the left-hand lane."

Roads minister Guy Opperman added, "This Government is on the side of drivers and is listening to their concerns.

"That’s why this campaign, as part of our Plan for Drivers, aims to tackle middle lane hogging and tailgating, which are not only irritating but dangerous too."

RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis said: "Simply put, middle lane hogging and tailgating are far more than mere annoyances for drivers – these actions put everyone on the roads at risk.

"Some offenders might find these habits hard to kick, which is why this campaign is so important.

"By understanding how we choose to drive affects others, we can each make a real difference to the safety of our roads."

The Highway Code clearly states drivers should "allow at least a two second gap between you and the vehicle in front on roads carrying faster moving traffic".

When conditions, such as rain, reduce visibility and traction, this gap needs to be at least doubled.

The campaign also warned that lane hogging and tailgating are charted as careless driving offences, that could result in an on-the-spot fine of £100 and three penalty points.

The laws dictate that the left lane should be used for driving unless overtaking, which should be concluded as quickly and safely as possible to return to the left lane.

National Highways hopes that this initiative will bring real change to driving culture, reducing unsafe practices and improving the driving experience for all road users.