What does "tailgating" refer to in driving?

Tailgating refers specifically to the practice of following another vehicle too closely, which can be dangerous and increase the risk of rear-end collisions. When a driver tailgates, they do not maintain a safe following distance, which is critical for allowing enough time to react to sudden stops by the vehicle in front.

Maintaining a safe space between vehicles is essential for ensuring that drivers have adequate reaction time and can avoid accidents. Tailgating can lead to increased stress for drivers and creates a heightened risk of collisions, especially in situations where the lead vehicle may need to stop suddenly. Encouraging awareness of safe following distances is a fundamental aspect of defensive driving to enhance road safety.