Motorists can drastically cut the risk of being involved in a car accident by following a key Highway Code rule to avoid tailgating.

The dangerous habit of tailgating involves drivers following the vehicle ahead much too closely. It's dangerous as, if the lead vehicle stops abruptly, there isn't enough time for the tailgater to brake safely, potentially causing a crash.

Such accidents can be avoided by adhering to the two-second rule. The Highway Code advises drivers, in fair weather, to maintain at least a two-second distance from the car in front.

According to Rule 126 of the Highway Code: "Drive at a speed that will allow you to stop well within the distance you can see to be clear. You should leave enough space between you and the vehicle in front so that you can pull up safely if it suddenly slows down or stops.

"The safe rule is never to get closer than the overall stopping distance." Drivers are also advised to "allow at least a two-second gap between you and the vehicle in front on roads carrying faster-moving traffic and in tunnels where visibility is reduced."

For safer journeys, the appropriate gap between cars depends on current driving conditions. While a standard two-second rule suffices in dry conditions, wet roads demand an increased gap.

The Highway Code says: "The gap should be at least doubled on wet roads and increased still further on icy roads. Remember, large vehicles and motorcycles need a greater distance to stop. If driving a large vehicle in a tunnel, you should allow a four-second gap between you and the vehicle in front."

Motorists risk hefty penalties if caught tailgating, an act police can deem as careless driving, potentially resulting in a £100 immediate fine and three points on a driver's licence. In cases where tailgating results in a major crash, offenders could face severe repercussions, including a potential driving ban or even jail time.