What is tailgating and why is it dangerous?

• A. Following too closely; it reduces reaction time and increases crash risk. Maintain a safe following distance.
• B. Slowing down to pass.
• C. Changing lanes without signaling.
• D. Parking directly behind another car.

Answer: (A)

Tailgating means following the car in front of you too closely. When you don’t leave enough space, you have very little time to notice a hazard and slow down, so a sudden stop or swerve by the driver ahead can lead to a rear-end crash. That’s why it’s so dangerous.

The best way to avoid tailgating is to keep a safe following distance. A practical rule is to use the three-second rule: pick a fixed point your car passes, and count three seconds before you reach that same point after the vehicle in front passes it. Increase this gap in rain, snow, or at higher speeds, since stopping distances grow in those conditions. If another driver is tailgating you, try to create more space by maintaining your speed and, if it’s safe, change lanes to let them pass. Avoid abrupt braking or confrontations.

Other actions described describe different driving behaviors and don’t define tailgating.