RACV poll reveals tailgating is most common road rage behaviour

Tailgating is the most frustrating and common road rage behaviour on Victorian roads, according to a recent RACV poll. Almost 50 per cent of respondents said they had witnessed or experienced tailgating (48 per cent), followed by aggressive driving (31 per cent), abusive behaviour (15 per cent), and excessive use of the horn (six per cent).

Data from Victoria Police aligns with these experiences, with 1,521 infringements issued for tailgating offence codes for the 2024/25 financial year, amounting to around $463,900 in fines.

RACV’s General Manager Insurance and Roadside, Bill Bloodworth, said RACV was also notified of more than 27,000 claims that originated from rear-end collisions in 2025, showing many drivers are not following at a safe distance.

"Tailgating is a reckless, dangerous and illegal driving behaviour that can see offenders fined up to $305 and docked one demerit point," Mr Bloodworth said.

"Almost 20 per cent of RACV motor collision claims are rear-end collisions, and in these incidents, the driver who hits from behind is typically considered at fault from an insurance perspective.

"That means if you're tailgating and cause a collision, you could be liable for excess payments on your policy and potential premium increases. It's simply not worth the risk."

Mr Bloodworth urged Victorian motorists to review their motor insurance coverage to ensure adequate protection.

"RACV encourages all drivers to check their car insurance – understand what level of cover you have, whether your vehicle's value is up to date, and what your excess amount is," Mr Bloodworth said.

"In the event of a collision, having the right insurance coverage can make a stressful situation much easier to manage. Don't wait until after an incident to discover you're not properly covered."

RACV's safe following distance tips:

• Use the two-second rule – Pick a fixed object on the side of the road and as the vehicle in front passes it, start counting. If your car reaches that object before you get to two, you're too close.
• Extend the gap in poor conditions – In wet, foggy conditions, at night, or when towing, increase the gap to at least four seconds.
• Stay calm if being tailgated – Don't accelerate or brake suddenly. When safe, change lanes or pull over to let the tailgater pass.
• Focus on the road ahead – Don't let yourself become distracted by aggressive drivers behind you.

What to do after a minor collision:

• Turn on hazard lights and move your vehicle out of traffic if safe
• Check on the health of passengers
• Exchange details with all parties – names, contact numbers, registration, and insurance information
• Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and road conditions
• Notify your insurer as soon as possible