How Much Does Following Too Closely Ticket Cost?

Last Updated on June 17, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Few things ruin a drive faster than seeing flashing lights in your rearview mirror signaling a traffic stop. And hearing the words “I’m citing you for following too closely” means a potentially expensive fine is coming your way. But just how much does a ticket for tailgating or “following too closely” actually cost drivers?

Let’s examine the various costs, fines structures, and mitigation strategies in detail.

How Much Does Following Too Closely Ticket Cost?

Overall costs for a following too closely ticket typically fall between $150 to $500 depending on the state and circumstances. Base fines alone can range from $50 up to $400 in some areas. Beyond just the ticket fine, additional fees, insurance hikes, and lasting DMV record impacts make the true costs much higher.

Drivers cited for following too closely face immediate out-of-pocket costs including:

• Base Fine – Varies based on state law, ranging from $50 up to $400 for a single offense. The average fine across most states falls around $150.
• Court Fees – Added administrative court costs typically add $20-$100 depending on the jurisdiction.
• Insurance Rate Hikes – Premiums rise an average of 15% to 30% after a violation, costing an extra $150-$300 per year for the next 3-5 years.
• DMV Points – Tailgating tickets lead to 3 or 4 demerit points added to your driving record. Excess points trigger license suspension.
• Traffic School – Judges may order compulsory traffic school costing $50-150 to teach safe habits.

Taken together, a single tailgating ticket often exceeds $250+ in total fines and recurring added costs. Repeat offenses lead to much harsher compounding penalties.

Reddit reports that the cost of a tailgating ticket can vary depending on the jurisdiction. One user mentioned that in their area, the fine for tailgating is $150 for a first offense, $300 for a second offense, and $450 for a third offense. They also mentioned that the officer’s subjective judgment plays a significant role in determining the fine.

Nolo provides information on how to beat a tailgating ticket. They mention that the cost of a tailgating ticket is generally a fine and demerit points on the driving record. The fine can range from $100 to $300, depending on the jurisdiction.

TrafficLaw411 reports that in New York, the fine for tailgating is up to $150 for a first offense, up to $300 for a second offense, and up to $450 for a third offense. They also mention that the driver can receive four points on their driving record for a tailgating conviction.

AllTicketsGone mentions that the cost of a tailgating ticket is generally a minor offense with penalties not exceeding $100. However, they highlight that the simple nature of the offense should not be ignored, as it can lead to surcharges and points on the driving record.

What is Following Too Closely (Tailgating)?

Let’s ensure we have a clear definition of what tailgating entails:

• Following behind another vehicle at a distance insufficient to allow for safe emergency braking and stopping. The unsafe gap is dictated by speed.
• Failure to react in time to avoid collision due to close proximity. Rear-end crashes are presumptive evidence of tailgating.
• Violating state laws mandating minimum following distances based on speed limit and weather conditions.
• Lingering in blind spots or so close that the lead vehicle’s rear view mirrors don’t even show the tailgating car behind.
• Situations when another driver needs to brake abruptly to accommodate the tailgater dangerously close behind them.

Law enforcement issues citations after visually gauging unsafe gaps between vehicles that clearly demonstrate negligent driving.

Traffic Laws Regarding Following Too Closely

Though regulations vary among states, core elements of laws governing safe following distance include:

• Prescribed minimum number of seconds/feet/car lengths between vehicles based on current speed. This safe braking distance is outlined in driver handbooks.
• Prohibitions against generally following “more closely than is reasonable and prudent.” Subjectively enforced based on an officer’s assessment of danger.
• Assigned fault to the rear driver in collisions for presumption of tailgating.
• Special additional provisions and greater following distances mandated for commercial vehicles and motorcycles.

Violating these traffic laws constitutes an infraction or misdemeanor offense depending on the state.

Factors Affecting the Costs and Fines

The exact dollar fine for following too closely depends on several considerations:

• The state or city where the traffic violation occurred. Fines for tailgating range from $50 into the hundreds based on local statutes.
• Severity of the unsafe proximity based on speed, weather conditions, abrupt braking required, etc. More hazardous incidents warrant steeper fines.
• Actual collision occurring due to tailgating. Rear-end crashes bring major fines starting around $300 plus liability.
• Driver history and number of prior offenses. Repeat violations lead to escalating fines and penalties.
• Individual judge’s discretion on fines when contested in traffic court. The judge may adjust fines based on arguments presented.
• Mitigating circumstances like adverse weather conditions and traffic flow. Evidence may reduce fines if properly presented.

Given these numerous variables, it’s difficult to pinpoint an average fine amount without consulting state and local traffic laws directly. Experienced traffic lawyers can provide case-specific estimates based on local regulations and typical fines levied.

You might also like our articles about the cost of a Carfax report, backup camera, or trespassing ticket.

Long-Term Consequences of Tailgating Tickets

The consequences of a following too closely ticket extend well beyond the initial fine:

• DMV demerit points added to the driver’s record, potentially triggering license suspension if exceeding limits.
• Increased insurance premiums by an average of 20% – 30%, costing several hundred dollars extra per year for the next 3-5 years.
• Possible mandatory completion of traffic school or defensive driving courses, adding time and costs.
• Difficulty finding affordable insurance coverage when policies renew or providers change after a ticket.
• Increased risk of license suspension or revocation for repeat tailgating offenses.

These lasting impacts make safe driving practices crucial long after paying the initial fine. Otherwise costs stack rapidly.

How to Pay Following Too Closely Tickets

When choosing how to pay your traffic fine, you have several options:

• By mail – Send check or money order to court address listed on ticket.
• Online – Many court systems allow online payments by credit card or eCheck.
• In person – Pay at the court clerk or violations bureau, often by credit/debit, cash or money order.
• Payment plan – Some courts permit paying in installments over 3-6 months for a fee.
• Traffic attorney – Lawyers can facilitate payment and argue for fine reduction.

Follow all instructions carefully to avoid additional penalties for improper payment.

Contesting the Ticket in Court

You have the right to contest a following too closely citation in traffic court. Potential grounds include:

• Incorrect vehicle identification – You can prove it was mistaken identity/wrong license number.
• Unsafe speed argument – You may claim conditions necessitated slower driving under the speed limit.
• Weather factors – Poor visibility or hazardous road conditions prevented maintaining distance.
• Mechanical issues – Problems like brake failure could be at fault, not driver negligence.
• Evidence validation – Police cruiser videos, photos, and accounts may lack sufficient evidence to uphold violation.

Traffic attorneys are skilled at building compelling arguments against tailgating charges. Their representation greatly improves odds of dismissal or fine reduction.

Preventing Tailgating

Avoid fines and promote safety with smart driving:

• Maintain at least a 3-second following distance at higher speeds. Increase in rain/snow.
• Scan ahead to anticipate stops early and gradually decelerate.
• Adjust speed to traffic flow while preserving safe spacing.
• Recognize frustration building when stuck behind slow vehicles and take deep breaths.
• Report unsafe drivers to authorities by calling #77 on highways in many states.

Final Words

Being cited for tailgating behaviors carries legal and financial consequences ranging from $250 into the thousands depending on circumstances. Drivers should be vigilant about maintaining safe following distances to avoid penalties and ensure accident-free journeys.

The risks of following too closely far outweigh any minimal time savings. By being alert and proactively preserving space cushions around your vehicle at all times, you protect yourself and everyone sharing the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many points is a following too closely ticket in NY?

In New York State, a following too closely traffic violation carries 3 points on your license. Accumulating 6 points in 18 months triggers a DMV driver assessment and potential penalties. Tailgating is also subject to fines of $90 to $150 plus mandatory state surcharges.

How many points is following too closely in GA?

The state of Georgia assigns 4 points on your license for a following too closely violation. This applies to first offenses with fines of around $150 on average. Subsequent offenses within 5 years add 2 points and increased fines up to $500. 15 points in 24 months leads to license suspension.

How much is a following too closely ticket in VA?

In Virginia, the base fine for a standard following too closely ticket is $68. However, total costs jump to around $200 after also accounting for processing fees, court costs, lawyer fees, and insurance increases. Fines escalate to $500+ for collisions or commercial vehicle violations involving tailgating.