Tailgating, or following too closely behind the vehicle in front, is a major cause of crashes.
"When you tailgate, the vehicle in front of you can be blocking your view of any hazards ahead, and if that vehicle in front stops suddenly you have no time to slow down and stop safely," said RCMP Const. Lesley Smith.
When stopped at an intersection, leave a vehicle length in front of you to prevent a domino effect if you are hit from behind.
On the road, a driver needs to leave a gap of one to two vehicle lengths behind the vehicle travelling ahead, so there's time to react and reposition if something happens ahead of you, said Smith.
A driver who rear-ends a vehicle will be held responsible for the crash. The fine is $109 and three traffic points under Section 162 (1) of the Motor Vehicle Act.
Following distance is also measured in seconds of space which can vary for different driving and road conditions.
Ideal driving conditions require about two seconds of space. Increase that to three seconds on high-speed roads, when behind a large vehicle that may block your view and when behind a motorcycle that can stop quickly. You need at least four seconds of space during bad weather and road conditions or on uneven and slippery roads.
Keeping a safe distance behind the vehicle ahead of you prevents road rage over what is called tailgating, which often leads agitated drivers to slam on their brakes to teach the follower a lesson.
"If you are being tailgated do not slam on the brakes because that just makes the situation worse and could cause a collision," Smith said.
"Rather, you should change lanes when safe to do so, or pull over to the side and let the tailgater pass.
"Report erratic drivers or vehicles committing a motor vehicle offence to the RCMP by noting the licence plate and description of the vehicle and driver, and let the police handle it," said Smith.
Excessive road rage, considered driving without consideration, carries a $196 fine and six traffic points under Section 144 (1) (b) of the Motor Vehicle Act
