(a)
(b)
· 43 ·
of the number of traffic accidents caused by tail-gating, as well as the number of casualties arising from such accidents, in each of the past five years; and
whether it will consider introducing legislation to prohibit tail-gating by motorists so as to prevent the occurrence of such accidents?
Answer:
Mr President,
(a)
(b)
Statistics on traffic accidents caused by driving too close to the vehicle in front and the associated number of casualties in the last five years are summarised at Annex.
In a rear-end collision, the driver of the second vehicle may be charged with careless driving. It is impractical to introduce legislation to prohibit driving too close to the vehicle in front because keeping a safe distance cannot be easily defined. A safe distance varies with the prevailing speed of the vehicles and other factors such as road conditions.
However, as a general guideline, the Road Users' Code suggests the use of a two-second gap under normal conditions in judging whether or not a sufficient distance is kept from the vehicle in front.
In July last year, we introduced, as a trial, chevron markings on a section of Tolo Highway near Hong Lok Yuen Interchange to assist motorists in keeping a safe distance. These markings give a two-second gap on the basis of the maximum speed allowed on that stretch of the road.
We believe continuous vigilance on enforcement and publicity is needed to reduce the hazards of driving too close to the vehicle in front. Government publicity is made through various channels, including the Road Safety Quarterly, Government announcements on radio and pamphlets issued by the Transport Department.