A driver shouted an insult at Reform UK leader Nigel Farage before crashing her car in Clacton on Tuesday evening, footage shared by Farage shows. The incident occurred as Farage and his team stood on the roadside campaigning ahead of the upcoming by-election in the area.
In the video, the driver of a grey Vauxhall Astra was seen leaning out of the window and calling Farage a derogatory name as she passed by. Moments later, the car collided with a BMW stopped at a red traffic light ahead. The driver apparently failed to brake in time after directing the abuse, leading to a rear-end collision. Bystanders and Farage’s associates can be heard reacting to the crash, with one saying the driver “won’t be doing that again in a hurry.” Farage shared the clip on social media, describing the event as “instant karma.” No injuries were reported in the minor accident.
The event took place near Clacton, where Farage seeks re-election in a by-election scheduled for August 13. Farage resigned as MP earlier this month, prompting the contest as he faces scrutiny over his personal finances and an ongoing parliamentary inquiry into a previously undisclosed £5 million donation, which he claims was a gift. The investigation is currently paused but may resume if Farage is returned to Parliament.
In recent weeks, Farage’s campaign has been marked by heightened tensions and security concerns. He has reported receiving over 300 threats per month and has criticized the level of protection provided to Reform UK MPs, particularly following the death of Ann Widdecombe, who served as the party’s spokeswoman for immigration and justice. In 2024, Farage was also targeted in an incident involving a milkshake attack outside a pub, which resulted in a suspended sentence for the assailant.
The by-election in Clacton will serve as a referendum on Farage’s political future amid ongoing controversies. Meanwhile, the crash incident highlights the volatility of the campaign trail and the sometimes hostile environment candidates face during elections.