LAW & DISORDER: FHP Sets Sights On Tailgaters

FL Dot, Jan 27, 2005

 
Motorists who don't keep their distance in March and April are being targeted by a Florida Highway Patrol initiative aimed at reducing tailgating.

Rear-end collisions accounted for 36 percent of crashes and 210 Florida fatalities in 2001, according to the Highway Patrol. That and a recent spate of serious semi-truck accidents in Northeast Florida mean troopers will pay special attention to rig drivers in Operation Tailgate. By law, tractor-trailer drivers must stay 300 feet or more from another rig while on the highway.

Other motorists will also be targeted by tailgate patrols operating at least twice a week. Those drivers must maintain a reasonable distance, or be about 2 to 3 seconds behind the vehicle they are following, according to the Highway Patrol. A ticket for following too closely carries a fine of $78 or more and costs three driver's license points.