Washington State Patrol is currently conducting a campaign to dissuade drivers from following too closely. The reason for the crack down on this dangerous driving behavior is that more than 9,500 collisions were caused by following too closely last year. Troopers ticketed over 24,000 drivers for this violation in 2016. This driving behavior is entirely preventable, coming at best from human error and at worst aggressive, reckless driving.

For those of you unfamiliar with the law, here it is, from the Washington State Legislature

RCW 46.61.145 “Following Too Closely” requires vehicles 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. If you’re caught following too close, it could cost you $136 and if a collision is involved it could be $187.

Every year, Washington State Patrol strives to reduce the number of car accident injuries and fatalities. You can help troopers by increasing your following distance and giving yourself more time to react. These two driving behaviors are 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.

For more, please visit:

WSP: Slow down, back it up

Great info from Whatcom County’s Target Zero Task Force, which looks for ways to reduce traffic fatalities to zero: The Wise Drive

Speeding doesn’t get you there faster

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