5-30-15 dodge county sheriff-law of the month

Following another vehicle too closely (tailgating) is a common problem that results in many crashes and often leads to road rage incidents.  All motorists must remember not to follow other vehicles too closely.   If the lead vehicle has to stop or slow suddenly for a road hazard, the following vehicle will not be able to stop in time to avoid a crash.  If the following vehicle has sufficient distance between the slowing or stopping vehicle, they will be able to react in time to avoid a collision.   Following too closely has a fine of $213.10 and 4 demerit points.   Wisconsin State Statute 346.14 (1) states:  The operator of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon and the condition of the highway.  Captain Trace Frost of the Dodge County Sheriff Office said, “A good rule to follow is the “3 second rule”.  This means you should maintain a 3 second gap between you and the vehicle you are following.  To do this, pick a fixed point the vehicle in front of you passes and then count to 3.  If you reach that fixed point before your 3 second count, you are following too closely.  This applies at any speed on a dry, flat, and straight road.”  Frost added, “When weather conditions warrant, a greater following distance should be used”.  Frost urges all motorists not to follow too closely for safety and courtesy.