The Psychology Behind Tailgating: Understanding Why and How

Whenever a driver is following closely behind another vehicle—the act known as tailgating—there is often frustration and ire. But is tailgating always an acknowledgment of impatience or road rage? Or is there more to the psychology behind this common driving behavior?

Understanding the Psychology of Tailgating

Dr. David Hassler, a psychologist, names a phenomenon known as the fundamental attribution error. This concept asserts that when people observe an action, they tend to attribute it to the personality or state of mind of the actor, neglecting the situational factors. Hence, when a driver is seen as impeding another driver by driving slowly, the observer may automatically assume that the slower driver is trying to be annoying or holding the offense for their own amusement. However, there could be numerous reasons for the slower speed, such as traffic or mechanical issues.

Common Reasons for Tailgating

Let's delve deeper into why people might choose to tailgate, even when they are aware of other vehicles in front. Here are some of the most common reasons:

Impatience and Aggression

Many tailgaters are simply impatient and seek to pressure the driver in front to move faster or change lanes. This action is a form of road rage, where people express their frustration and anger by driving dangerously close to other vehicles.

Limited Driving Experience

For less experienced drivers, the concept of maintaining a safe following distance can be unclear. Accidents and near misses might compel a novice driver to follow more closely, thinking it will encourage the lead driver to accelerate.

Heavy Traffic Conditions

During times of heavy traffic, it is common for drivers to unintentionally find themselves tailgating. The physical constraints of the road do not allow enough space for a safe distance, leading to numerous instances of close following.

Misunderstanding of Safety

A significant number of drivers might not be fully aware of the risks associated with tailgating. The assumption is that following closely will prevent the vehicle from missing out on opportunities to progress in traffic. This misunderstanding can lead to potentially dangerous situations.

Responsible Tailgating: A Nuanced Perspective

It’s important to recognize that while tailgating is generally considered an unsafe and unsportsmanlike driving habit, there are situations where a more responsible approach might be warranted:

Heavy Traffic

During periods of heavy traffic, maintaining a very short distance might be unavoidable. This is typically not true tailgating since the speed is low and drivers are often stopping and starting frequently.

Professional Drivers

In cases where professional drivers, such as those in certain emergency or delivery services, need to be closer to other vehicles for operational reasons, they are usually well-trained to handle such situations safely.

Awareness and Control

A driver who tailgates but remains fully aware of their surroundings and maintains control over their vehicle might be seen as more responsible than someone who is simply aggressive.

Conclusion

In general, tailgating is not considered a safe or responsible driving practice. It not only increases the risk of accidents but also escalates tensions on the road. The best practice is to maintain a safe following distance and allow for adequate reaction time to sudden stops or emergencies. Encouraging patience and understanding among drivers can help reduce instances of tailgating and improve overall road safety.