How Does Tailgating Lead to a Car Crash?

Tailgating is both irritating and dangerous. It signifies reckless and aggressive driving behavior. In fact, tailgating is one of the leading causes of rear-end collisions.

Rear-end collisions can result in life-altering injuries like spine and back injuries, head injuries and whiplash. If you or someone you love sustains injuries following a rear-end collision that is attributable to tailgating, you may be eligible for financial restitution through a car accident lawsuit. But what exactly is tailgating and how does it happen?

Understanding tailgating

Basically, South Carolina traffic laws require motorists to keep a safe distance between moving vehicles at all times. The logic behind this is simple: in the event of an emergency, there would be adequate room for maneuvering, thus, avoiding a potential accident. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for some motorists to overlook this rule and follow the car in front of them too closely.

Here are three leading causes of tailgating

Aggressive driving – driver aggression may be attributed to a number of factors. However, impatience is at the top of the list. An impatient driver may tailgate to intimidate the lead car to move faster or give way.

Distracted driving – some motorists simply become complacent about the gap they leave between them and the car in front. This gap can dangerously narrow when the tailgating driver gets distracted by a conversation with passengers, cell phones or other activities.

Driving under the influence – alcohol impairs a driver’s brain function. Consequently, they may be unable to judge and maintain a consistent distance from the car in front of them.

Protecting your interests

Tailgating is a dangerous driving maneuver. Learning more about South Carolina car accident laws can help you safeguard your rights and interests if you are hurt in a car accident that is someone else’s fault.