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

In Washington, tailgating is considered a form of aggressive driving and is illegal according to state laws. The state laws state that drivers must maintain a safe distance between their vehicle and the one ahead of them, so as to allow ample room for sudden stops or other hazards. If a driver is found to be tailgating, which is defined as following too closely, they can be fined and/or have their license suspended. According to Washington State law, drivers must maintain a safe distance between their vehicle and the one in front of them. This is so that there is enough space to stop in a safe and timely manner if need be. Drivers should give themselves a two-second cushion following the vehicle in front of them, or four seconds if the speed is greater than 40 mph. The law states that if a driver is driving recklessly and causes an accident due to tailgating, they will be held liable for any damages incurred. In addition, some cities within Washington have specific laws regarding tailgating, regarding the consequences and/or fines associated with it. For example, the City of Seattle has a tailgating law that states that those who violate it will face a $136 fine and a suspended driver’s license for 180 days. It is important to remember that tailgating is not only illegal, but it is also dangerous. It puts both the driver and other drivers on the road at risk of being in an accident. To help reduce risks, it is important to always practice safe driving habits and keep a safe following distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.

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

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