All driver trainers will use this phrase, but let’s expand. In essence it’s about creating space, based on the fact if you have space then you can’t hit anything, and no one can hit you!
By having a bubble around the vehicle, you do away with the phrase; “There was nothing I could do about it, there was nowhere to go!”
‘Tyres and Tarmac’ specifically applies to slow moving traffic and when stationary in that great ‘British’ pastime, a queue! If you can always see some tarmac between the front of your vehicle and the vehicle in front, i.e. you can see where their rear tyres touch the road, then if ‘something’ occurs you will be able to move, either forward, left or right thereby avoiding or maybe just minimising, an incident.
This not only works in an emergency, but is also a great help to you when the vehicle in front can’t or doesn’t move, as you will be able to drive around it and not get frustrated or held up!
Safe driving is all about creating space and time to make better decisions and this simple tip is just one small thing that helps in this aim.