What Happens When Someone Won’t Maintain the Proper Distance Between Cars When Driving?

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers | May 13, 2025 | Car Accidents

What Happens When Someone Won’t Maintain the Proper Distance Between Cars When Driving?

Driving too closely to the car in front—also known as tailgating—is a dangerous habit that can lead to serious car accidents, injuries, and even death. 

In California, drivers are required by law to maintain a safe following distance at all times. But what actually happens when someone fails to do so? 

This article explains your rights, responsibilities, and legal options if you’ve been involved in an accident caused by tailgating.

What Is Tailgating?

Tailgating happens when a driver follows the vehicle in front of them too closely, without enough room to stop safely. If the lead driver has to brake suddenly, the tailgater often doesn’t have enough time or space to avoid a crash. This is especially risky in heavy traffic, during bad weather, or at high speeds. 

California law states that drivers must not follow another vehicle more closely than is “reasonable and prudent,” while considering the speed of traffic and road conditions. Tailgating is not only illegal but also dangerous. It puts everyone on the road at risk and can easily lead to rear-end collisions.

Why Safe Following Distance Matters

Keeping a safe distance between cars helps drivers:

  • Avoid rear-end crashes
  • React to sudden stops or slowdowns
  • Stay calm and reduce road rage
  • Drive more smoothly and safely

A good rule of thumb for car spacing on the road is the “three-second rule.” Choose a fixed object like a sign or tree ahead of the car in front of you. Once they pass it, count to three. If you reach the same object before three seconds pass, you’re too close to the car in front of you. 

Giving yourself space to react is one of the simplest ways to avoid accidents and keep others safe.

Common Accidents Caused by Tailgating

Tailgating is one of the top causes of rear-end accidents in California. 

When someone drives too close, it can lead to:

  • Rear-end crashes, which are the most common type of accidents, from following too closely
  • Multi-car pileups, especially common on highways, where one crash triggers others
  • Whiplash injuries due to sudden impact from behind
  • Severe trauma, including broken bones or head injuries in high-speed collisions

Even at low speeds, tailgating can cause painful and costly damage. Tailgating often leads to preventable accidents and serious injuries.

Drivers who don’t maintain proper distance can face both legal and financial consequences in California, such as:

  • Traffic tickets and fines for following too closely
  • Points on their driving record
  • Higher insurance premiums
  • Being held at fault for the accident, which means paying for damages and injuries

In rear-end crashes, the tailgating driver may often be considered at fault because they didn’t leave enough space to stop in time. Tailgating can cost drivers thousands of dollars in fines, repairs, and liability.

What to Do If You’ve Been Hit by a Tailgater

If you were hit by someone who was following too closely, it’s important to take the right steps:

  • Call 911 to report the accident and get medical help if needed.
  • Get the other driver’s information, including license, insurance, and vehicle details.
  • Take pictures of the damage, injuries, and the scene of the crash.
  • Talk to witnesses who may have seen the tailgating.
  • Contact a personal injury lawyer to protect your rights and help you get fair compensation.

After an accident, protecting your legal rights can make all the difference in your recovery. You may be entitled to money for losses such as medical bills, lost wages, vehicle damage, and pain and suffering. 

Contact a Chula Vista Personal Injury Lawyer for Your Tailgating Accident

Following too closely isn’t just annoying—it’s a serious danger on California roads. When someone refuses to maintain the proper distance between vehicles, it can result in painful injuries, totaled cars, and legal headaches. 

If you’ve been the victim of tailgating, you don’t have to face it alone. With the help of a trusted Chula Vista personal injury lawyer, you can fight for the compensation you need to heal and move forward. 

Tailgating can have major consequences, but with the right support, you can recover and protect your future.

Contact the Car Accident Law Firm of Mission Personal Injury Lawyers Today To Get More Information

If you’ve been injured in San Diego or Chula Vista, please call Mission Personal Injury Lawyers for a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer or contact us online.

We proudly serve San Diego County and throughout California.

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – San Diego Office
2515 Camino del Rio S Suite 350, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 777-5555

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – Chula Vista Office
690 Otay Lakes Rd #130, Chula Vista, CA 91910
(619) 722-3032

We also serve the state of Texas. For legal assistance, contact our personal injury law office in El Paso today.

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – El Paso Office
201 E Main Suite 106, El Paso, Texas 79901
(915) 591-1000