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Tailgaters blamed for increase in collisions

Nose-to-tail crashes are the most common form of accidents on Melbourne's CityLink network

December 14, 2012

Tailgating drivers are being blamed for nose-to-tail crashes being the most common form of accidents on Melbourne’s CityLink network.

More than 75 percent of collisions involve vehicles running into the back of another due to drivers travelling too close, CityLink Group General Manager Victoria Elizabeth Mildwater says.

There were 288 nose-to-tail crashes recorded last year, which is up from 158 in 2006.

CityLink, together with Murcotts Driving Excellence, is launching a safety campaign called Look Up, Stay Back, which urges drivers to avoid tailgating by leaving a two-second gap from the vehicle in front.

Leaving adequate braking distance can reduce the risk of collisions, Mildwater adds.

“A safe breaking distance gives drivers the chance to stop if the traffic ahead slows and more opportunity to avoid the vehicle in front if it makes a last-minute lane change,” Mildwater says.

“It’s a busy time on the roads, with many drivers heading off on holiday or to visit family and friends and we want to ensure their drive is a safe and smooth one.”

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