What all Drivers Should Know
Tailgating—driving too closely behind another vehicle—is not just frustrating for Arizona drivers; it’s also dangerous and illegal. Whether you’re navigating busy intersections in Scottsdale or traveling along Highway 95 in Lake Havasu City, following too closely can result in serious consequences under Arizona law.
Arizona Tailgating Law: A.R.S. §28-730
Arizona Revised Statute §28-730 prohibits following another vehicle more closely than is “reasonable and prudent.” While the law doesn’t specify a set distance, it considers factors such as:
- Vehicle speed
- Road and weather conditions
- Traffic density
If you’re unable to stop in time due to close following distance, you may be cited for tailgating.
Penalties for Following Too Closely in Arizona
A tailgating ticket is typically a civil traffic offense and may result in:
- Fines
- Points on your Arizona driving record
- Mandatory defensive driving school
- Higher auto insurance premiums
However, if tailgating leads to a collision or injury, law enforcement may pursue more serious charges such as:
- Reckless driving
- Criminal damage
- Endangerment
Who’s at Fault in a Rear-End Collision?
In most Arizona rear-end accidents, the rear driver is presumed at fault for not maintaining a safe following distance. However, liability can shift if:
- The lead driver stopped abruptly without reason
- Brake lights were malfunctioning
- A third vehicle caused a chain reaction crash
A knowledgeable personal injury or criminal defense attorney can investigate fault using dashcam footage, witness statements, and accident reconstruction.
👉 Related Reading: Car Accident Lawyer Scottsdale | Auto Crash Attorney Lake Havasu
Tailgating and Personal Injury Claims in Arizona
If you were injured because someone was tailgating, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle damage
On the other hand, if you’re accused of causing a rear-end crash, Rideout Law Group can challenge the assumptions and protect your legal rights.
What to Do if You Receive a Tailgating Ticket
Before you pay a citation for following too closely, consider the long-term impact:
- Accumulated points could lead to license suspension
- Insurance premiums may increase
- Commercial drivers risk employment issues
Our traffic defense attorneys in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu often negotiate reduced penalties or full dismissals.
📞 Scottsdale Office: (480) 584-3328
📞 Lake Havasu Office: (928) 854-8181
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Local Courts We Serve
Rideout Law Group regularly represents clients in:
- Scottsdale City Court
- Maricopa County Superior Court
- Lake Havasu Municipal Court
- Mohave County Superior Court
Our attorneys—including former prosecutors—have deep familiarity with local judges and procedures.
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal guidance specific to your situation, please contact a licensed attorney at Rideout Law Group.