Tailgaiting is one of the most dangerous forms of aggressive driving and is the most common cause of rear-end collisions. Tailgating occurs when a vehicle is traveling too close to the car in front of them. Accidents are more likely to happen when tailgating because the tailgating driver is likely not leaving sufficient room to brake safely in the event that the lead vehicle stops suddenly. Thus, the tailgating driver has less time to react and generally cannot avoid hitting the car in front.
In the majority of cases, the car that was following too closely would be presumed liable for the car accident. If the following driver left enough distance, then they should be able to stop with enough time as to not hit the lead car.
It is important to note that if a vehicle is traveling at 30 miles per hour, it will take a minimum of 75 feet or the length of a semi-truck to stop the car safely. However, if you double your speed from 30 miles per hour to 60 miles per hour, then your braking distance becomes four times as long. When traveling at 60 miles per hour, it takes the average person about 60 feet to realize they need to stop and then 180 feet to completely stop the car for a minimum of 240 feet to stop the vehicle safely. Additionally, if the road is wet then these braking distances could increase as much as four times further than dry roads.
There are steps you can take that can help you avoid a tailgating collision.
- Use the third-second rule to ensure you are maintaining a safe driving distance from the car in front of you.
- When driving in wet weather, reduce your speed.
- Leave enough time to get to your destination.
- If a vehicle is driving too slowly, pass them safely.
- If you are being tailgated, move to the right lane, if possible, to allow the driver to pass you.
By failing to allow sufficient distance between cars, a rear-end accident is more likely to transpire. If you are involved in a tailgating accident, do not talk to the insurance company until you have spoken to an experienced Eason & Tambornini car accident lawyer.
