Tailgating is common in busy metro areas like Sacramento. Drivers who feel pressured or overeager to get to their destinations sometimes make the dangerous decision to follow other cars too closely. Tailgating gives motorists little time to brake or slow down if traffic conditions change. This reckless choice raises the risk of rear-end collisions and other motor vehicle accidents that can harm others.
If you were in a car accident caused by a tailgating driver, you may have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries and other crash-related losses. Let the experienced attorneys of Demas Law Group help you seek the justice and financial relief you deserve.
Our law firm understands that taking legal action can be challenging for injured victims. Our attorneys approach each personal injury case with the goal of providing results and peace of mind to our clients. Rest assured that we can handle every detail car accident claim and keep you updated throughout the process.
Securing the best outcome in your case means having advocates prepared to work tirelessly on your behalf. That’s what you’ll get from Demas Law Group. Contact us today for a free consultation with a tailgating car accident attorney in Sacramento.
What is Tailgating?
Tailgating refers to driving behind another vehicle without leaving enough space to slow down or stop to avoid a collision. The safe distance drivers should leave between themselves and the car ahead will depend on multiple factors, including traffic speed, weather, visibility, and road conditions.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles and other officials recommend using the three-second rule to ensure a safe following distance. This means a driver should leave three seconds of space between their vehicle and the one in front.
Here’s how to apply the three-second rule to your driving: Pick a stationary object along the road, such as a street sign or telephone pole. Start counting to three once the motorist ahead of you passes the object. At least three seconds should go by before you pass the same object. Keep a longer distance when driving in adverse weather conditions or on poorly maintained roads.
Why Do Drivers Engage in Tailgating?
Drivers follow other vehicles too closely for various reasons. Some drivers inadvertently tailgate other cars due to inattention. Others intentionally follow too closely due to reckless or aggressive behavior.
The most common reasons for tailgating include:
- Distracted driving
- Drowsy driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Traffic congestion or stop-and-go traffic
- Running late
- Reckless driving
- Road rage
- Speeding
- Driving too fast for conditions
- Overconfidence in driving ability
- Misjudging weather or road conditions
- Failing to adapt to road, visibility, or weather conditions
Tailgating Car Accident Statistics
Tailgating is a common cause of rear-end accidents. According to one study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end accidents account for about 29 percent of all crashes resulting in serious injuries. A rear-end collision occurs when the lead vehicle has slowed or stopped in traffic.
Statistics from the California Highway Patrol report that 141,540 rear-end collisions resulted in injuries statewide in a recent year. Nationwide, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recorded 2,428 fatal rear-end collisions. While the data does not pinpoint tailgating as the sole cause of these crashes, these accidents are usually caused by driver negligence, including following too closely.
Who is At Fault in a Tailgating Car Accident in California?
California law prohibits tailgating. It defines following too closely as driving in a manner that is too close to be reasonable and prudent. The facts of the case will dictate what constitutes a reasonable and prudent distance, so it’s crucial to consult a knowledgeable tailgating car accident lawyer to learn whether you have a case.
Because a driver must leave sufficient space between their car and the vehicle ahead of them, the rear vehicle’s driver is usually at fault for causing a tailgating car accident. Furthermore, the responsibility often lies with the rear motorist if they were driving while intoxicated, distracted, or otherwise negligent.
If the police issue a traffic citation to the other driver, it can be helpful evidence in your case. However, a traffic ticket is not required to have a valid personal injury claim against a tailgating driver.
In some circumstances, others can bear some of the fault for tailgating car accidents. For example, the driver of the lead vehicle might be partly or entirely responsible for a rear-end collision if they abruptly stopped while turning left. Another driver may be at least partly responsible for a tailgating car accident if they cut off the lead vehicle at high speed, causing the driver ahead to hit the brakes and leaving the driver of the rear vehicle with no opportunity to avoid a collision. A car accident attorney will thoroughly examine all contributing factors when determining liability for a crash.
Distracted Driving and Tailgating
Distracted driving is one of the most frequent causes of tailgating. Motorists paying attention to their cell phones, navigation systems, and eating or drinking often have their eyes off the road, at least temporarily. Distracted drivers might fail to notice when the vehicle in front of them brakes, leaving them less time to slow down and stop before striking the car ahead at full speed.
While a vehicle’s front and rear have the most significant crash protection, a full-speed collision can easily lead to serious injuries. A full-speed crash could push a lead vehicle into the vehicle in front of it, causing a chain reaction that leads to a multi-vehicle or pile-up accident.
Call a Car Accident Lawyer in Sacramento Today
You need effective legal representation to pursue maximum compensation after a tailgating accident in Sacramento. The proven auto accident attorneys at Demas Law Group can identify every liable party in your case and push for the full and fair amount you’re due.
With 25 years of experience and a history of recovering record-breaking verdicts and settlements in personal injury cases, you can count on Demas Law Group for hard-hitting advocacy when you need it most. Call or contact us today for a free consultation.
