TAILGATING and using a mobile phone behind the wheel can be tracked by new research vans which have hit the roads in Essex and across the UK.

In a plan to improve road safety, National Highways has started the trial of new mobile technology which can also detect motorists who fail to wear a seatbelt whilst driving.

Known as a sensor test vehicle, the police van is parked at the side of the road whilst the artificial intelligence technology is used, with the trial scheduled to last for three months until the autumn.

Drivers found to be tailgating, using mobile phones, or driving without a seatbelt will be sent warning letters in partnership with their regional police force to inform them of the dangers of their actions.

With 420 collisions on British roads in 2019 found to have taken place whilst a driver was using a mobile phone at the wheel, National Highways is undergoing a concerted effort to clamp down on the offence.

The head of road safety at the organisation, Jeremy Phillips, said: “Our advice is clear; please leave enough space, buckle up and give the road your full attention.”