Why is tailgating considered dangerous?

Tailgating is considered dangerous primarily because it decreases reaction time and increases the likelihood of a collision. When a driver follows another vehicle too closely, they have less time to react if the vehicle in front suddenly slows down or stops. This close proximity means that if the lead vehicle has to brake quickly, the tailgating driver may not have enough distance to stop safely, increasing the risk of a rear-end collision.

In addition to the heightened risk of accidents, tailgating can also lead to aggressive driving behaviors and road rage, as it places pressure on the driver in front to move faster or make decisions based on the tailgater's proximity. This increased stress can further compromise overall road safety.

Other options like improving fuel efficiency or making it easier to change lanes do not reflect the realities of driving dynamics and safety, and can contribute to a misunderstanding of appropriate driving behavior. Safe driving practices emphasize maintaining a sufficient following distance to ensure adequate reaction time and a safer driving environment for everyone on the road.