Auto accident and traffic pattern investigators throughout the world agree that tailgating is the full or partial cause of one third to one-half of all automobile accidents. This common driving behavior is not only tempting when we are in a rush to get somewhere, it is also illegal.

Tailgating occurs when one car drives to closely to the vehicle immediately in front of it, riding on its tail. Not only does this decrease the time that both drivers have to react to unpredictable road hazards, it can also cause or escalate road rage between the drivers of the two cars involved. The tailgating driver becomes angrier and angrier when the car in front of them refuses to speed up or allow them to pass, and the tailgated driver becomes increasingly frustrated from the pressure of a car so close behind them and drive more slowly or even briefly press the brake pedal so the brake lights come on as a warning.

Both activities are dangerous. Sudden breaking when someone is close behind you to increases the chances that the tailgating car will lose control and either rear end the tailgated car or skid hazardously into other vehicles on the road. Both also increase the likelihood of a chain reaction leading to a multiple car pileup causing serious injuries and potential fatalities.

How to Avoid Auto Accidents Caused by Tailgating
Drive at the speed limit. Maintaining a steady pace at the posted limit helps drivers to stop safely and easily if the cars in front brake suddenly. Consider the speed limit to be the upper limit allowed and when light or weather conditions make driving or hazardous be sure to adjust your speed level down.

Do not tailgate. Avoid going too close to the cars in front of you by allowing 10 feet of distance in front of you for every 10 miles per hour you are traveling. When driving at 40 miles per hour, for example, it is ideal to leave 40 feet of space between you and the cars in front of you. This will give you room to stop suddenly without colliding into other cars.

Keep in mind that larger vehicles and motorcycles need greater stopping distances. If you are behind vehicles like these give even more space than 10 feet per 10 miles per hour increment.

Double the space between your car and the cars in front of you during bad weather conditions such as fog, snow, rain and ice. The decrease in tire traction caused by wet weather raise your chances of going into a skid when stopping suddenly so does best have ample space to regain control without colliding into other vehicles.

Following these precautionary measures will go far in preventing tailgating-related car crashes. If you’ve been involved in an accident as the result of tailgating, contact a professional auto accident attorney for advisement and aid.