What does the term "tailgating" refer to?

The term "tailgating" refers specifically to the practice of following another vehicle too closely. This behavior can create a dangerous situation on the road, as it reduces the driver's ability to react to sudden stops or emergencies. When a vehicle tailgates, the distance between it and the vehicle in front decreases significantly, which can lead to rear-end collisions, especially if the lead vehicle must brake unexpectedly. Maintaining a safe following distance is crucial for ensuring adequate reaction time and minimizing the risk of accidents. Understanding this concept is vital for safe driving and is often emphasized in defensive driving courses.