The most common form of tailgating is vehicle tailgating, where a driver follows another vehicle too closely, often within a dangerous distance.
This behavior is considered reckless and dangerous, as it significantly reduces the following driver's reaction time and ability to stop in an emergency.
Tailgating can contribute to rear-end collisions, which are one of the most common types of car accidents.
Why Is Vehicle Tailgating So Common?
- Impatience: Drivers who are in a hurry or feel rushed may tailgate to try and get the car in front of them to move faster.
- Lack of Awareness: Some drivers may simply be unaware of how close they are to the vehicle in front of them.
- Aggressive Driving: Tailgating can be a sign of aggressive driving behavior, which may also include speeding, cutting off other drivers, and road rage.
How to Avoid Tailgating:
- Maintain a Safe Distance: The two-second rule is a good guideline. This means you should be able to count two seconds between the time the car in front of you passes a fixed object and when you pass the same object.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to the vehicles around you and be prepared to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions.
- Avoid Distractions: Don't text, talk on the phone, or eat while driving.
