Following Too Closely

So, you have received a ticket for following too closely. What does that even mean? What should you do? The first thing you should do is call us so we can help. However, you are here so let’s take a look at what this law is all about and how it will impact you.

In layman’s terms, the Following Too Closely (RCW 46.61.145) law says that any vehicle should not follow another vehicle at a distance that is more closely than what is “reasonable and prudent.” The problem with the language used is what one person may consider reasonable and prudent may be different than someone else. Because of this confusing language that does not seem to be defined in the law, it leaves a lot up to interpretation and the officers. Some factors they may take into account when determining what following too closely means can include the speed at which you are traveling and road conditions. For example, if it is raining an officer may think you are following too closely at the same distance that would not be too close if it were clear and sunny. Most of the time these tickets happen is if you are involved in a rear-end collision.

So, you have received a ticket for following too closely. What does that even mean? What should you do? The first thing you should do is call us so we can help. However, you are here so let’s take a look at what this law is all about and how it will impact you. What the Law Says In layman’s terms, the Following Too Closely (RCW 46.61.145) law says that any vehicle should not follow another vehicle at a distance that is more closely than what is “reasonable and prudent.” The problem with the language used is what one person may consider reasonable and prudent may be different than someone else. Because of this confusing language that does not seem to be defined in the law, it leaves a lot up to interpretation and the officers. Some factors they may take into account when determining what following too closely means can include the speed at which you are traveling and road conditions. For example, if it is raining an officer may think you are following too closely at the same distance that would not be too close if it were clear and sunny. Most of the time these tickets happen is if you are involved in a rear-end collision. How Will It Impact Me? If you get a ticket for following too closely there are some factors that you will want to consider.

So, you have received a ticket for following too closely. What does that even mean? What should you do? The first thing you should do is call us so we can help. However, you are here so let’s take a look at what this law is all about and how it will impact you. If you get a ticket for following too closely there are some factors that you will want to consider.

• Driving Record – Having this type of ticket can impact your driving record. This is especially concerning if you drive for a living or have to have your driving record pulled for your occupation.
• Insurance – Your insurance premiums may go up due to having this type of violation. It can even impact your ability to obtain new insurance if you need to.
• Fines and Court – You will have to pay a penalty for following too closely, sometimes close to $1,000, in addition to the time you will have to spend in court should you decide to fight it. You may miss time from work or have to find a babysitter depending on your situation.
• Attorney Fees – While we highly recommend that you have an attorney to help fight this, mainly due to the interpretation of the law, there will be fees associated with this as well. The good news is it will cost you less than the fine.

As you can see, getting a following too closely violation can have a significant impact on your life. From your driving record to the financial effect it is best to be sure you are always keeping a safe distance. You cannot interpret the law on your own if you decide to fight the violation. If you already received a ticket for this and feel it is unwarranted, give us a call. We can offer you a consultation to see if we can help defend you.