Drivers have a legal duty to remain aware of their surroundings and follow traffic laws to avoid collisions. One of the most common car crashes results from the habit some drivers have of following other vehicles too closely.

Learn more about following too closely in the article below, including what the law says about it and how this type of driver negligence could result in a collision that causes others serious harm.

If another driver’s tailgating led to a crash that injured you, our experienced Minneapolis car crash attorneys are ready to help. Contact our law office to discuss your situation and potential legal options for recovering compensation. When TSR Injury Law represents you, your case is in good hands, and there are no upfront costs or fees to pay.

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What Is Following Too Closely in Minnesota?

Following too closely refers to driving behind another vehicle with an insufficient amount of space between your car and the one in front of you. It is often referred to as “tailgating” and is considered a dangerous driving behavior.

How Close Is Too Close Under the Law?

Minnesota state law defines a safe distance from the vehicle ahead as:

• Not following closer than what is both reasonable and sensible
• Adjusting speed to consider the traffic, weather and road conditions

The Minnesota Driver’s Manual cites the Three-Second Rule to help drivers visualize a safe following distance. The three-second rule applies to normal road and traffic conditions. Under this rule, drivers must stay at least one car length behind the vehicle in front of you for every 10 miles per hour you are traveling. The rule is called the “three-second rule” because there should be a minimum of three seconds between you and the car ahead.

For example, if you are traveling at 60 miles per hour, you should maintain at least a 180-foot distance from the vehicle in front. When road conditions are poor, due to rain, ice, snow, or fog, you will need to adjust your following distance accordingly. Vehicles need more time and distance to stop safely on wet or icy roads without hydroplaning or skidding.

What Are the Dangers of Drivers Following Too Closely?

Following too closely creates several driving hazards, both to the tailgating driver, the occupants of the vehicle in front, and others on the road. Some of these risks include:

• Limited Ability to React to Unexpected Hazards: Drivers who tailgate have less time to react to a sudden stop or obstacle in the road. The shorter the distance between vehicles, the less time you have to brake and avoid a collision.
• Increased Likelihood of a Rear-End Collision or Chain-Reaction Crash: A tailgating driver increases the risk of a rear-end collision or triggering a multi-vehicle pileup. These collisions can cause serious injuries to drivers and passengers in all vehicles involved.
• Aggressive Driving Behavior: Aggressive tailgating is more likely to escalate to road rage, increasing the risk of a serious crash.
• Obstructed Road Visibility: Tailgating drivers cannot see the traffic ahead of their vehicle, making them blind to developing hazards.
• Less Control When Road Conditions or Weather are Poor: Drivers who follow too closely are less likely to be able to maintain control on poor road conditions or during adverse weather.

Are There Any Penalties for Driving Too Closely in Minnesota?

Under Minnesota Law, it is illegal to follow other vehicles too closely. Police can pull you over and give you a ticket even if your tailgating does not lead to a crash.

Drivers who fail to adhere to this traffic law can expect severe penalties, including fines, points on their driver’s license or even liability for causing a crash.

If a driver is extremely aggressive or recklessly following another vehicle, that individual could also be charged with a misdemeanor, which could mean up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. A tailgating driver who causes serious or fatal harm to another person may be charged with a gross misdemeanor, resulting in up to a year in jail and a fine of $3,000.

What Injuries Are Common in Rear-End Collisions?

While rear-end collisions may seem less severe than head-on crashes, they can cause significant harm. Victims in rear-end collisions often suffer injuries that include:

• Whiplash: A sudden impact from behind can cause the neck to jerk forward and backward rapidly, leading to whiplash injuries. These can result in long-term pain and stiffness.
• Concussions: The force from a rear-end crash can cause the head to snap back or strike something in the vehicle, leading to concussions or other brain injuries.
• Back and Spinal Injuries: Impact from a crash can cause herniated discs or damage to the spine. These injuries can result in chronic pain and may require surgery or long-term therapy.
• Broken Bones: Depending on the severity of the collision, broken bones or fractures can occur, particularly in the chest, legs or arms.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: The force of the collision can strain muscles, ligaments, and tendons, resulting in sprains and tears.

Ready to Seek Legal Help? Contact Our Firm Today

Following too closely is a dangerous driving behavior that significantly increases the risk of a crash. If you have been injured in a collision caused by a tailgating driver, you may have legal rights to seek compensation.

Contact our legal team at TSR Injury Law to discuss your situation, including whether you may be eligible to seek compensation for your damages. We offer a free legal consultation.

Experienced Lawyers. Proven Results: (612) TSR-TIME