Tailgating Editorial

Dear Editor,

Many people have experienced the frustration of being behind slow-moving vehicles. When this happens, countless drivers follow more closely than they should. This is known as tailgating. Tailgating is not only irritating, it is dangerous. Following too closely is the most common cause of rear-end collisions.

As emergency responders, our ambulance crews see this practice often and frequently are called to crashes that are the direct result of tailgating. When driver’s tailgate they significantly reduce their ability to come to a complete and safe stop. They also sacrifice their perception and reaction times.

Avoid tailgating as part of your regular safe driving practice by keeping a 3-second following distance between you and the driver ahead of you. To do that, choose a stationary object near the road. Watch for the vehicle ahead of you to pass that object. It should be at least 3-seconds before the vehicle you are driving passes that same stationary object. In the event of poor driving conditions (ice, snow, fog, rain), your following distance should be increased even greater.

Tailgating doesn’t make the person in front of you drive any faster; it only adds frustration for them and for you. If you must get ahead of the vehicle in front of you, maintain the proper following distance and wait for a safe and legal road segment to pass. This will make the roadways safer for all drivers.

Sincerely,

Brian Nord
Safe Communities of Wright County Board Member
Manager, Allina Medical Transportation
Buffalo