What does it mean if a driver is tailgating?

Tailgating refers to the practice of a driver following another vehicle too closely, often resulting in insufficient reaction time if the vehicle ahead suddenly stops or slows down. This behavior is considered dangerous because it increases the risk of rear-end collisions. Maintaining a safe distance between vehicles is critical for safe driving, as it allows enough time to respond to any unexpected changes in traffic conditions.

The other options describe behaviors that are not related to tailgating. Maintaining a safe distance is the direct opposite of tailgating, while driving more quickly than the speed limit involves excessive speed, and signaling to change lanes pertains to communicating a driver's intent rather than their following distance. Understanding the implications of tailgating is vital for promoting road safety and ensuring that drivers engage in responsible driving practices.