A few weeks ago, I spent some time discussing “car-mmunication” as a form of nonverbal communication that we display when we are driving. Everything from speeding to failing to use turn signals communicates something about us, not only as drivers but also as human beings.

This week’s topic, “Following Too Closely,” aligns with this same theory. Just as the use of, or failure to properly use, your high beams indicates a person’s consideration for other drivers, a person’s need to tailgate indicates a high degree of aggressiveness and impatience.

First, let's establish the statutory language on this issue. Wisconsin Statute 346.14(1), “Distance Between Vehicles,” covers this behavior. It 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.” The fine for this offense is more than $200 and carries a four-point assessment on your license.

While the statute does not give a specific following distance for passenger vehicles, it does state that trucks with a gross weight of 10,000 pounds or more must maintain a following distance of 500 feet.

So, the question is: What is too close? This depends on the traveling speed of both vehicles, as well as road and weather conditions. In a city or village, at low speeds, the distance may be less than when traveling on rural roads where speeds are greater. The primary concern is related to those rural roads and highways. For these, it is prudent to keep a distance of approximately 300 feet between your vehicle and the vehicle you are following. What is significant about 300 feet? It is approximately the distance between utility poles along the road and a way to gauge your distance at any given moment.

The reason following too closely is a concern is that it shows absolute disregard for your safety as well as the safety of those you are following. If you consider the reaction time needed when a deer or other object enters your lane of travel, you can imagine the results when that reaction time is eliminated due to following too closely. While the driver you are following may be able to see, process, and respond, all you may have time to do is cause a crash that could lead to injuries not only to yourself but also to your passengers and other motorists.

Many drivers think that if they hug the vehicle in front of them, it will somehow force that vehicle to speed up. I am here to tell you that is not the case. Following too closely is a form of nonverbal communication that does nothing more than create a dangerous environment and communicate to the driver in front of you that you are a rude, inconsiderate person who is only focused on your own needs.

You can avoid the need to follow too closely by planning and leaving plenty of time for your intended travels. This is especially important as we transition into the winter season, not only because road conditions will be less forgiving but also because those conditions can change at a moment’s notice. A change of just a few degrees in temperature can be the difference between stopping and sliding.

If you are the victim of an inconsiderate driver following too closely, please feel free to call law enforcement. Often, these impatient, rude drivers follow up their tailgating with a passing maneuver, which will give you an opportunity to get their license plate number and allow us to “educate” them. If you can call law enforcement safely, please do so. If you are willing to give a statement, it will give us the ability to heighten that educational experience for them through a citation.

Regarding the seasonal increase in car-deer crashes, our year-to-date total stands at 241. Last year at this time, it was 250. These past two years' totals are up quite a bit from previous years, so please slow down and give yourself plenty of reaction time.