Brake warns that most drivers’ failure to always keep a safe distance adds to the case against raising the motorway speed limit, currently being considered by government. At 80mph, stopping distances are 27% greater than at 70mph (122m on average compared to 96m at 70mph) [1], meaning drivers are less able to stop in time in an emergency and avoid devastating crashes.

Brake is calling on the government to scrap plans for 80mph limits, predicted to lead to 25 more deaths and 100 serious injuries every year, increase carbon emissions and costs to drivers. 

In Great Britain in 2010, 263 people were killed and 1,445 seriously injured in road crashes on motorways and 70mph roads. 

Julie Townsend, Brake deputy chief executive, said: 'Drivers who don’t keep their distance increase the risk of pile-ups, which can and do result in multiple and violent deaths and injuries, and devastation for the families involved. We urge all drivers to realise the vital importance of the two second rule, and make a personal commitment to always stick to it. We are also appealing to the government to ditch proposals to raise the motorway limit – the fact most drivers aren’t keeping their distance only adds to the case against this inhumane policy. Various researchers have predicted an 80mph limit will mean more lives cut short and more horrific injuries, while arguments in favour simply don’t stand up to scrutiny.'