WHY UAE DRIVERS NEED TO LEARN THE TWO-SECOND RULE

Tailgating persists as a common hazard

- BY SONY THOMAS Special to Gulf News

Tailgating remains one of the most dangerous and widespread driving habits on UAE roads. Dubai Police have reiterated that failing to maintain a safe distance between vehicles can lead to a Dh400 fine, four black points, and even a possible 30-day impoundment. The RTA's official Vehicle Handbook backs this up with a simple recommendation: apply the two-second rule and extend it to three or four seconds in poor visibility. It's a small habit that could prevent many of the sudden rear-end and multi-car collisions that dominate UAE accident statistics each winter.

Most drivers have heard of it, but very few actually apply it. And in a country where highways are wide and speeds are high, understanding the science and logic behind the rule could be the difference between a close call and a collision.

The principle is straightforward. Pick a stationary point on the road a lamp post, signboard, or even a road marking. When the car in front of you passes it, start counting: “one thousand and one, one thousand and two.” If you cross that same point before you finish the count, you're too close.