Tailgating facts, risks, and rules explained
Tailgating tops the list of driver annoyances in Queensland. Learn the facts, risks, and rules behind this dangerous driving habit.
Tailgating, or driving too closely behind another vehicle, is one of the most common and dangerous habits on Queensland roads.
It is also the behaviour that annoys drivers the most according to RACQ’s 2025 Annual Road Safety Survey.
The survey found almost every respondent (96%) ranked tailgating as a frustrating driver behaviour, above littering (95%) and using mobile phones (93%).
Queensland road rules state drivers ‘must drive a sufficient distance behind a vehicle travelling in front of the driver so the driver can, if necessary, stop safely to avoid a collision with the vehicle.’
Failure to do so can see drivers fined $389 and receive one licence demerit point, with a maximum penalty of 20 penalty units ($3,338).
Despite its prevalence, many drivers misunderstand what tailgating is and how it is enforced.
Misconception 1: ‘There’s a legal minimum distance I must keep.’
Reality: Queensland road rules don’t specify an exact distance in metres (except for drivers of long vehicles travelling behind another long vehicle in certain circumstances). Instead, the law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance that allows enough time to stop and avoid a collision.
The safe following distance can vary depending on speed, driving conditions and the type of vehicle you are driving.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads recommends driving at least two seconds behind the vehicle in front in ideal conditions.
It is also recommended to at least double it to a minimum of four seconds if towing, or driving in poor conditions (e.g., in the rain).
How to judge two-second following distance
- Pick a fixed point on the left side of the road, such as a power pole or traffic sign.
- When the car in front passes it, count “one thousand and one, one thousand and two.”
- If you reach the point before finishing the count, you’re too close, so increase your distance.
Remember, in poor weather or if driving a heavier vehicle the lapsed time should be increased to four seconds or more.
Misconception 2: ‘Tailgating isn’t a big deal unless I hit someone.’
Reality: Tailgating is considered aggressive driving and can lead to fines and demerit points.
It’s also a major contributor to rear-end collisions, which are among the most common types of crashes in Queensland.
Misconception 3: ‘It’s okay to tailgate if the driver in front is going too slow.’
Reality: Frustration doesn’t justify unsafe driving. If the vehicle ahead is travelling below the speed limit, you must still maintain a safe distance. Tailgating can lead to dangerous outcomes including crashes or other road users reacting aggressively.
Misconception 4: ‘I’m not tailgating, I’m just drafting.’
Reality: Drafting (driving close to reduce wind resistance on your vehicle) might be a tactic in motorsports, but on public roads, it’s illegal and unsafe. The very minor aerodynamic benefits for limited periods of time and at road speed aren’t worth the greatly increased risk of a collision.
What you should do
- Back off: Give yourself space and time to react to the unexpected
- Stay calm: If someone is tailgating you, don’t brake suddenly; safely change lanes or let them pass.
- Educate others: Share the two-second rule with friends and family.
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