Understanding the Risks of Tailgating: Legal Consequences and Police Standards

Every driver encounters uncomfortable situations on the road, and one of the most irritating is being followed too closely by another vehicle, a practice known as tailgating. While some might argue that a close distance isn't always a problem, the legal and safety implications are significant.

The Law and Tailgating: A Closer Look

According to sovereign law, you are not automatically arrested for tailgating or cutting off a car unless you violate explicit prohibitions. However, the interpretation of such prohibitions can vary widely. For instance, the present government and police officers have different standards, which can lead to varying enforcement.

Sovereign law ensures that driving is a privilege, and exceeding this privilege can result in both legal and justice system consequences. A notable example is the prohibition against having fuzzy dice on the rearview mirror, where the violation is not significant, but the law is absolute. Similarly, not wearing a seat belt can result in criminal charges by a motorcycle officer, even though the behavior is not inherently dangerous.

Common Sense and Basic Driving Etiquette

While the law may seem flexible, the underlying principle in driving is common sense. You should instinctively know the appropriate distance to maintain between your vehicle and the one in front. This awareness helps prevent accidents and promotes a safer driving environment for all.

Adhering to Stringent Jurisdictional Rules

Some jurisdictions have clear prohibitions against tailgating, while others do not. If your jurisdiction has strict laws against following too closely, the police will use these standards to enforce the law. Conversely, if there are no prohibitions, the issue becomes more complex, often relying on the interpretation of local police standards.

A Real-World Example: Intense Tailgating Incident

Not long ago, I encountered a chilling experience that demonstrates the risks of tailgating. Another car was driven so close to my exhaust that I couldn’t see the front lights nor half its bonnet. This was clearly tailgating, and it left me fearing for my safety.

I slowed down and pulled over, assuming the other driver would simply pass me. However, the driver, who turned out to be a woman, refused to move, staying a few feet behind my car. Despite my efforts—waving my hazard lights and getting out to communicate—she remained stubbornly in my exhaust.

Threatened by the proximity of this driver, I was forced to take drastic measures. I accelerated to 120 miles per hour, but the driver followed, staying barely a single car length away. Faced with no other choice, I hit the brakes abruptly. Unfortunately, the brakes had not been properly adjusted, and my vehicle swerved sideways, seemingly causing the driver to lose sight of it.

The outcome was not what any of us hoped for. While the driver's car came to rest in an unusual position, the incident underscored the risks involved. In such circumstances, it is essential to prioritize safety and legal protocols over personal confrontation.

Conclusion: Safety and Legal Compliance

Whether or not you can be charged with tailgating or cutting off another vehicle too closely depends on local laws and enforcement. However, the best approach is to adhere to the basics of safe driving and respect the space of other road users. Remember, disobeying basic driving etiquette can have severe legal and safety consequences.