What does the term "tailgating" mean?

The term "tailgating" specifically refers to the practice of following another vehicle too closely. This behavior is dangerous because it reduces the driver's ability to react to any sudden stops or changes in speed by the vehicle ahead. When a driver tailgates, they have less time to brake and may not have enough space to maneuver safely in the event of an emergency. Tailgating can contribute to rear-end collisions, which are common types of car accidents. Understanding this term is crucial for promoting safe driving practices, as maintaining a proper following distance is essential for road safety.

The other choices describe different driving behaviors that do not relate to the concept of tailgating. Driving too slowly can lead to traffic congestion but does not involve the proximity to other vehicles. Changing lanes frequently can indicate impatience or distraction but is unrelated to the distance kept from another car. Stopping suddenly in traffic can create hazards, but it does not define tailgating either. Therefore, the definition of tailgating focuses solely on the unsafe practice of following too closely.