What are the laws about following too closely (tailgating)?

Tailgating, or following too closely, is prohibited by law in Pennsylvania. It is illegal to follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, considering the speed of the vehicles and the amount of traffic on the road. As stated by Pennsylvania’s Vehicle Code, drivers must maintain a minimum distance between their vehicle and the one in front of them. The penalty for being found guilty of tailgating is usually a fine, which may range from $25 to $75, depending on the severity of the offense. For offenses committed in an urban area, a more severe penalty may be imposed. Depending on the circumstances, a driver may also be found guilty of a summary offense, which carries a maximum fine of $300 and/or jail time of up to 90 days. In order to avoid a citation for tailgating, drivers should practice defensive driving habits. Drivers should maintain a safe distance between their vehicle and the one in front of them, and should be aware of the speed of all other vehicles on the road. Drivers should also leave extra space when passing other vehicles, as this will reduce the risk of an accident. In addition, drivers should always use their headlights when driving at night, as this will ensure that other drivers can see them. Finally, drivers should be cautious when the weather or road conditions are not ideal, as these can decrease visibility and increase the risk for an accident.

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What are the laws about following too closely (tailgating)?

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