If another driver is too close to your rear bumper, it’s not only frustrating—it’s illegal. Tailgating is a traffic offense in New Jersey, and for good reason. It puts you and others at risk for serious crashes, especially at high speeds or in heavy traffic.
What New Jersey law says about tailgating
State law says drivers “shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent,” taking into account the speed of the vehicle ahead, traffic conditions, and the state of the road. In short, you must leave enough space to stop safely if the car in front of you brakes suddenly.
Additionally, when driving on highways outside business or residential areas, the driver of a vehicle must stay at least 100 feet behind another vehicle. This rule doesn’t apply during passing, but under normal driving conditions, that space must be maintained.
Tailgating increases accident risk
Following too closely is one of the leading causes of rear-end crashes. It reduces your ability to react in time, especially during bad weather or sudden traffic changes. Tailgating also leads to aggressive driving behavior, road rage, and unpredictable actions by other drivers. Maintaining a safe following distance is one of the simplest ways to avoid unnecessary danger.
How to drive defensively and avoid citations
Keep at least a three-second gap between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Use road markers to measure the time after the car ahead passes them. Add more space when driving in rain, fog, or heavy traffic. If someone is tailgating you, don’t respond aggressively—move over or slow down to let them pass safely.
Tailgating may seem minor, but it can quickly lead to major consequences. Whether you’re driving a car or a truck, keeping a safe distance helps protect everyone on the road. Stay alert, give yourself room to react, and follow the law to avoid fines, collisions, and unnecessary stress behind the wheel.