Tailgating is one of the major causes of car accidents

On Behalf of | Apr 26, 2022 | Motor Vehicle Accidents |

If you can see the other driver’s eyes via your rearview mirror, then there is a pretty good chance they are tailgating you. Of course, tailgating can be both dangerous and irritating. Tailgating poses high risk of rear-end collision and injury for both the tailgater and the driver they are following closely.

Tailgating is a form of aggressive driving that happens when one driver follows the other at a distance too close that the vehicle behind cannot have adequate time or room to respond if the car in front makes an abrupt stop.

Injuries that can result from tailgating

Depending on the severity of the impact, a rear-end collision that is occasioned by tailgating can result in the following injuries:

  • Neck and head injuries
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Seat belt syndrome

Immediately following the car accident, it is important that you see a doctor as soon as you can. Remember, some injuries can take longer to manifest, and failing to detect and treat them in time can worsen your condition.

So what are the main causes of tailgating?

Tailgating is caused by a number of reasons. Here are some of them:

Aggressive driving

A motorist may be aggressive behind the wheel for a number of reasons. And impatience is one of them. Impatient motorists tend to tailgate in an attempt to push the car in front so they can move faster.

Bad weather

While driving in bad weather, like a foggy morning or in the rain, motorists tend to have a difficult time gauging the distance between the vehicles.

Distracted driving

Distractions from cell phones or conversations with the other vehicle occupants may take the attention off the road resulting in them drawing dangerously close to the car in front.

Tailgating is responsible for thousands of road accidents each year. Knowing your rights under the law can help you pursue a car accident claim if you are involved in a rear-end car accident that is not your fault.