Following too closely increases the risk of which type of crash?

• A. A rear-end collision
• B. A rollover crash
• C. A front collision trap
• D. A sideswipe collision

Answer: (C)

Following too closely leaves you with almost no time to react if the vehicle ahead brakes suddenly. When you’re right behind another car, a quick stop or sudden slowdown by them can put you in a front collision trap—a situation where your car is so close that you’re forced into a crash with the front end of the lead vehicle. The only way to avoid that trap is to give yourself enough space to brake and, if needed, maneuver around hazards.

To stay out of this danger, use a safe following distance—typically the three-second rule, and more in rain, at night, or on slippery roads. While other crashes can happen in different contexts, tailgating directly increases the chance of hitting the front of the lead vehicle because there isn’t enough room to stop or react in time.