When a motorist drives too close to the vehicle in front of them it is considered tailgating. Tailgating is a form of aggressive driving behavior in which a motorist does not leave sufficient room between themselves and the vehicle in front of them. A motorist who tailgates increases the likelihood of being involved in an auto collision as tailgating typically results in a rear-end collision. Additionally, a motorist who tailgates reduces the amount of time they have to react to changing road conditions and hazards. Tailgating accidents are extremely dangerous and can cause victims to sustain significant injuries. In the unfortunate event that you or someone you care about has been injured in an auto collision caused by tailgating, please read on and contact a determined Washington, D.C. Car Accident Lawyer who can help you recover economic and non-economic damages for your losses.
Why are tailgating accidents so dangerous in D.C.?
Unfortunately, tailgating accidents are a common occurrence as motorists tend to lose their patience on the road as they are in a rush to get to their destination. However, this violent driving behavior is extremely dangerous. It is dangerous because it diminishes a motorist’s ability to adapt to their surroundings as well as reduces their reaction time. To operate a vehicle safely and properly, motorists should follow the three-second rule regarding leaving enough room between their vehicle and the vehicle in front of them. According to statistics, motorists need at least two to three seconds to process and respond to changing road conditions and hazards. Ultimately, motorists will not have enough time to react to the vehicle in front of them suddenly braking or turning if there is insufficient distance between the vehicles. This can result in the vehicle crashing into the vehicle in front of them and could cause catastrophic injuries.
Who can be held liable for this type of auto collision?
Motorists who engage in this type of aggressive driving behavior can be held liable for any accidents and damages that occur as a result of their negligence. Motorists are legally required to abide by the rules of the road and exercise reasonable care when operating their vehicles to ensure everyone’s safety on the road. Victims must retain the legal services of a qualified Washington, D.C. car accident lawyer who can help victims file a claim within the right time frame. In D.C., victims have three years to file a claim against a negligent party to seek financial compensation for their damages. If they fail to meet this deadline they will be barred from ever recovering monetary compensation for their losses in the future.
Tailgating accidents can be prevented if motorists keep a safe distance between their vehicle and the vehicle in front of them. If you have been injured in an auto collision due to a motorist tailgating, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our skilled and trusted team members. Our firm is committed to helping our clients seek the justice they deserve and recover monetary compensation for their damages.
