Tailgating or following too close is a danger that everyone faces when getting behind the wheel. This is especially dangerous for large trucks due to the weight and momentum of the vehicle. The average vehicle traveling at 60 mph needs at least 240 feet to come to a safe stop. Commercial truck drivers need much more time and space to come to a complete stop. Tailgating is a huge threat to drivers safety on the road. Practice safe driving and avoid tailgating by following these tips.
Keep Distance
Keeping a safe distance between vehicles while driving is the easiest yet most broken rule of driving. Assuming weather conditions are good, you should keep at least 3 seconds between each vehicle. Allowing three seconds between each car gives you enough time to react and slow down. Keeping the right amount of distance decreases your chances of collision.
Be aware of road conditions
When road conditions are dangerous, you need to double the distance between each vehicle. There should be at least 6 seconds of distance between vehicles when visibility is low and roads are wet. Six seconds may seem like a large gap and an inconvenience, but driving safely can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
Watch your speed when going down hill
Some drivers increase speed when going downhill to make up for the speed lost while going uphill. This can be very dangerous. Drivers can find themselves tailgating unexpectedly.
Don’t rush
There may be times when you’re in a rush to get to your destination, but rushing on the road is always dangerous. Always remember to practice safe driving and do not rush. It’s safer for you and others on the road to keep the right amount of distance and drive the speed limit.
Tips for passengers
- Stay out of blind spots
- Pass safely
- Stay back
- Anticipate wide turns
- Be patient
- Stay focused
It’s important to drive safely and know the importance of how to avoid tailgating. You can’t always predict how things will go on the road. You can’t control when people get upset and start to road rage. But you can control your actions
Share with us your tips on how to avoid tailgating.
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