Media Release: 19 December 2014

Back off the bumper this summer

A few seconds is all it will take to make our roads safer these summer holidays, says the AA.

“Nearly 1 in 10 injury crashes last year involved someone following too close. Back off the bumper and keep at least 2 seconds back from the car in front of you,” says AA Motoring Affairs General Manager Mike Noon.

“With so much traffic on the road as people head away on holiday it’s even more important for people to keep a correct following distance.

“It’s been a soggy start to summer as well, so when it’s raining double your following distance and turn on your headlights to make it easier for other vehicles to see you.”

Driving close behind another vehicle gives you little time and space to react to anything unexpected and reduces your visibility. It also makes the driver in front of you uncomfortable and increases frustration on the roads.

“Everyone has something unexpected happen on the road happen ahead of them at some stage.
“Even the best drivers are going to have a reaction time of a second or more to process what is happening and start braking, which is why it’s so important to keep at least a two-second following distance.”

Along with not following too closely, drivers also need to be aware that the Police reduced speed tolerance is in force until the end of January and remember that the adult drink driving limit has reduced.

“It should go without saying that people need to stick to the speed limit, always wear a seat belt and not drink and drive. If you are going to be drinking, have a safe way of getting home arranged like a sober driver, taxi or stay where you are overnight.”

6 AA tips for safe summer driving:

· Keep a good following distance (2 seconds in the dry, 4 seconds in the wet)
· Make sure everyone in the car is buckled up
· Stick to the speed limit
· Don’t drink and drive
· Take regular breaks and avoid driving tired
· Turn on your headlights if it’s raining

Ends

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