When you’re minding your own business and driving safely, it can be extremely intimidating when someone suddenly appears in your rearview mirror. Although this can happen momentarily, if a driver does not return to a safe distance, they could be tailgating.
Following a car too closely for an extended period is often a form of aggressive driving that can lead to devastating accidents. So, why do people tailgate, and what exactly can you do about it?
Common causes of tailgating
Tailgating isn’t always a direct product of aggression. There can be other factors at play. For instance, a driver may simply be making an error in judgment. Complacency and a false sense of security are commonly at the heart of bad driving decisions. Nonetheless, such decisions are no less detrimental in their consequences, and they can lead to people getting hurt.
How can tailgating impact you?
Tailgating places you in significant danger of being caught up in a rear-end collision. Essentially, this means that if you are required to stop suddenly, the tailgating driver will not be able to apply the brakes in time. Rear-end collisions have the potential to cause serious injuries to your head, neck and other parts of the body. In extreme circumstances, they might even be fatal.
What can you do about it?
While it may be tempting, it is in your best interests not to lash out in anger at unsafe driving practices. If it is safe to do so, your best course of action may be to let the driver overtake you. Remember, doing nothing at the time doesn’t mean you can’t do anything at all. Taking a note of the make, model and registration of the vehicle will leave you the option of reporting dangerous driving practices to the relevant authorities.
If you have been caught up in a rear-end collision due to tailgating, remember that it is not your fault. Having a firm grasp of your legal rights in North Carolina will give you the opportunity to pursue the compensation that you are entitled to.
