Motorists should beware of White Van Man on their tail, according to a survey of thousands of accidents.

Van drivers were 47 per cent more likely to be involved in a crash when they were following other drivers too closely, the survey by AXA Business Insurance found.

The survey also found van drivers were much more likely than other drivers to crash while reversing, doing a U-turn and changing lanes, while they were more liable than other road users to get tired or distracted.

But the survey also showed that van drivers were less likely to cause crashes at roundabouts, in towns and cities and while overtaking.

They were also seen to be more confident drivers who were less prone to drink-driving and speeding than other road users.