Victorians called out for tailgating

Motor vehicle insurer Allianz has revealed in a press release that Victorian drivers are the country's worst tailgating terrorists.

Put it down to traffic congestion or the draconian policing perhaps, but Victorians are more likely to lodge a motor vehicle claim for damage incurred as a consequence of inadequate braking distance left between two vehicles.

They're also more likely to be involved in a crash where one car did not give way to another.

According to Allianz, claims data over the past three years shows one in four Victorian claims are for damage that's a direct consequence of a nose-to-tail crash. Inattention or impatience are likely contributing factors in the high incidence of these claims, but whatever the cause, it's important to maintain a safe braking distance, said Leanne Hendry, GM of Allianz Motor.

"This is especially true in heavy traffic when motorists may be tempted to drive too closely to the car in front of them," she was quoted saying in the press release. Tailgating was nearly as prevalent in New South Wales, according to the insurer, with rear-enders accounting for one in five claims.

Ms Hendry offered this advice for drivers involved in a crash: "Move yourself and any passengers to a safe place; call 000 if anyone has been hurt; exchange details with the other driver/s and take photos of the scene.

"Then contact your insurer to discuss your next steps, including moving your damaged vehicle and, if your policy allows, using a hire car while yours is being repaired."

Crashes by type and state
Damaged while parked:
South Australia – 19%
Victoria – 17%
Western Australia – 17%
NSW – 15%
Queensland – 14%

Failed to give way:
Victoria – 13%
NSW – 11%
South Australia – 10%
Western Australia – 8%
Queensland – 8%

Glass damage:
Western Australia – 27%
Queensland – 25%
NSW – 15%
South Australia – 13%
Victoria – 12%

Hit in rear:
Victoria – 23%
NSW – 19%
South Australia – 17%
Queensland – 17%
Western Australia – 15%

Reversing:
South Australia – 18%
Western Australia – 15%
Queensland – 15%
Victoria – 14%
NSW – 13%

Pictures courtesy of Alex Proimos and Fir0002/Wikimedia Commons