Many Ohio motorists have likely at some point or another, been guilty of following another motor vehicle too closely. Commonly referred to as tailgating, during 2012, this dangerous driving behavior was the leading cause of all motor vehicle accidents in the state of Ohio. In fact, one such recent multiple vehicle accident resulted in eight individuals being injured and was caused by a truck driver who was following another vehicle too closely.

Drivers who tailgate often report to being in a hurry. Following another car or truck too closely, however, is not only annoying to those drivers being followed, but is also extremely dangerous. What's more, tailgating is illegal and can result in a driver being fined.

There are numerous dangers associated with tailgating. In many cases, drivers who follow another vehicle too closely are not able to react quickly enought if the leading vehicle slows down. Regardless of the speed at which a vehicle is traveling, a driver needs adequate time to be able to react to the actions of other drivers.

Many rear-end accidents result when a driver is following another vehicle too closely and is either distracted or unable to react quickly enough to a change in speed. Injuries commonly sustained by those drivers and passengers involved in rear-end accidents can be serious and even fatal. In many cases, those individuals impacted in rear-end accidents require both immediate and ongoing medical care.

Individuals who have been involved in an accident in which another driver was tailgating or following too closely may choose to take legal action. Monies recovered via a personal injury lawsuit can help injured parties recover compensation related to pain and suffering, permanent disability, medical expenses and lost wages.

Source: WFMJ, "Distance a factor in Howland crash," Lindsay McCoy, Aug. 18, 2013