Tailgating Charge

The Law Offices of Leon Matchin, LLC has helped thousands of drivers charged with traffic offenses throughout Central New Jersey. As stated in New Jersey statute N.J.S.A. 39:4-89, tailgating (also called following too closely) is the unlawful following of another vehicle more closely than reasonable, taking into account the speed of the vehicles, road conditions and amount of traffic. A reasonable distance between vehicles is considered a two second interval with dry roadways, a four to five second interval on wet roadways and in the case of truck drivers 100ft should be given to other trucks.

Penalties for Tailgating

A conviction of tailgating carries the following penalties:

• • Incarceration up to 15 days
  • $85 fine ($140 for violations occurring in a 65 mile/hour or construction zone)
  • 5 MVC points (12+ MVC points results in driver’s license suspension)
  • Other fees, assessments and surcharges at the discretion of the court

To avoid the serious consequences of a tailgating conviction you should seek the help of an experienced traffic attorney. The Law Offices of Leon Matchin, LLC may be able to dismiss or downgrade the charges against you. Often it is possible to negotiate with the courts for a lesser charge that does not carry MVC points.

Call Today for a Free Consultation

If retained, our firm will thoroughly review your case and we will work with you to decide the best available option to protect your interests and your rights. Call The Law Offices of Leon Matchin, LLC today for a free consultation and begin building your defense. (732) 662-7658.