Driving under idyllic conditions can be a peaceful, even relaxing experience. Almost every driver knows the joy of a leisurely commute to work, humming along to their favorite song. However, once you add traffic and a sprinkle of aggression, your favorite drive can take an unfavorable turn. One of the most common forms of aggressive driving is tailgating. In fact, according to a study by Zebra in 2023, 49% of drivers cited tailgating as their top driving frustration. But what is tailgating in driving and why is it considered dangerous? Tailgating driving is defined as driving too closely behind another vehicle. Failing to leave a safe distance between you and your fellow driver can potentially increase your risk of a rear-end collision and lead to an accident. Infinity Insurance Agency, Inc. (IIA) understands the serious risk of tailgating. No matter the situation., tailgating is never worth putting yourself or others in danger.
Follow along to learn about the consequences of tailgating and how to handle this situation on the road!
Understanding tailgating
Have you ever wondered ‘is tailgating illegal?’ Most states consider tailgating illegal as it is believed to increase the risk of accidents. Despite that, specific laws and penalties regarding tailgating vary from state to state. While tailgating is generally categorized as a traffic violation, consequences for tailgating can vary from fines and points on your license to a license suspension. Tailgating is generally defined as a traffic violation that can occur when a driver follows another vehicle too closely, leaving insufficient space to stop if the vehicle in front of them needs to stop suddenly. However, since tailgating laws can vary from state to state, law enforcement officers are entitled to use their discretion when enforcing these violations and will usually consider other factors such as road conditions, traffic density, and speed of vehicles involved.
Why do people tailgate?
Drivers can tailgate for a multitude of reasons. Tailgating is considered a form of aggressive driving. Picture this, you overslept for work and now you are stuck in traffic, you may try to closely follow the vehicle in front of you to make up for lost time. This is just one example of tailgating that may seem harmless but has the potential for negative consequences such as a rear-end collision!
Some of the top instigators of tailgating include:
- Distracted driving - If your focus is on your phone or your morning snack you might not even realize you are tailgating.
- Impatience - Rushing or trying to speed may accidentally lead to tailgating.
- Unaware or complacent driving - Drivers who are unaware of the dangers of tailgating may become complacent and fail to leave enough room between vehicles.
- Anger or frustration - If another driver engages with you in an aggressive way or displays road rage, you may be tempted to tailgate them out of spite or anger.
Dangers and consequences of tailgating
More than just an unsavory driving behavior, tailgating can lead to an increased risk of rear-end collision accidents and even legal consequences. Depending on your state, if you rear-end someone you could be deemed at fault for the accident. While tailgating is generally seen as a traffic infraction, even just one rear-end collision could have negative effects on your insurance rate or lead to a hefty fine. Rear-end collisions are also known to cause instances of physical injury including whiplash/neck, shoulder, and wrist injuries.
How to avoid tailgating
Thankfully there are a few tricks to keep in mind to avoid tailgating. The National Safety Council recommends implementing the three-second rule to avoid instances of tailgating. Over half of the states have adopted this rule of thumb which suggests when a vehicle in front of you passes a stationary object on the side of the road, count for three seconds, then you should pass that same object. It is important to note that the three-second rule should be adjusted based on weather conditions and speed. For example, if driving under rainy or unfavorable conditions add a second and count to 4. Remember that the faster you drive, the more space you need to leave between your car and another vehicle to safely brake. For instance, under the three-second rule, a car driving at 45 mph should allow a space of 198 feet, but a car driving at 65 mph will need a buffer of 286 ft.
Other ways to actively avoid tailgating can include:
- Maintaining a buffer zone between you and other cars, and adjusting this buffer based on the size of the car.
- Minimizing distractions while driving; opting for hands-free devices or using do not disturb mode on your phone.
- Staying calm in stressful driving situations and avoiding aggressive behaviors.
- Using caution when approaching intersections, stop lights, or changing lanes.
- Staying in the right lane, as slower traffic tends to keep to the right.
How to handle a tailgater
It can be stressful and even a little scary to encounter a tailgating situation. If you are being tailgated, you should remain calm and not panic. Try to stay focused and attempt to create space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Look for a safe way to allow the tailgating car to pass you, if possible, pull over to the side of the road or change lanes. Do not try to engage or antagonize the offending driver by braking or driving slowly. Above all, remain patient and make safe driving decisions.
The impact of tailgating on insurance
Tailgating fees can vary in severity from state to state. Unfortunately, even just one citation of tailgating can be enough to impact your insurance rate. Typically, frequent tailgating incidents can lead to more insurance claims. Tailgating is seen as a risky driving behavior that can often lead to a greater number of accidents and therefore claims. This can cause your insurance company to raise your rate which leads to increased insurance premiums, to cover the costs of more claims.
Looking to lower your risk of a raised premium? Utilize the 3-second rule, engage in safe driving behaviors, such as obeying the speed limit and following all traffic signs or consider taking a safety or defensive driving course. (National Institute of Health)
Tailgating may seem like a ‘quick fix’ to get to where you want to go, but this behavior is inherently reckless, disrespectful, and potentially dangerous. Failure to maintain a safe distance between cars can put others at ill ease and even cause a fender bender! Remember road safety applies to everyone.
Ready to be a more responsible driver? Call IIA today at 1-855-478-3705 to learn about our insurance offerings or receive a quote for auto insurance!
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