Troopers target tailgating drivers in emphasis patrol this week
Tailgating on your commute could get you a ticket!
This week, Washington State Patrol troopers are cracking down on drivers who follow behind other cars too closely.
According to Washington State Law (RCW 46.61.145) you’re required to “follow at a distance that is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicles and the traffic upon and the condition of the highway.”
The ticket is $135, but that fee jumps to $187 if the violation causes a crash.
Last year, WSP responded to more than 9,500 crashes because of tailgating.
Troopers say you need one car length for every 10 miles per hour that you're driving.
The patrol's campaign runs March 7 - 9, 2017.
"The WSP continuously strives to reduce the number of injury and fatality collisions in our state each year. You can help us by increasing your following distance and giving yourself more time to react. This is especially important during traffic congestion, adverse weather, and as your speed increases. The more room you have, the more time you have to react, and the less likely you are to be involved in a collision."