Following Too Closely in Georgia

Most people have either been guilty of following someone too closely or have had this happen to them. It happens all the time but most following too closely tickets result from accident where someone was rear-ended. However, we have also seen instances where people were pulled over for following too closely and then charged with DUI. If you or a loved one have been charged with following too closely in Georgia, contact our lawyers today. Even though it may seem like a minor charge, don't just accept the consequences. There are always defenses we can use to mitigate the penalties. Call us today.

Georgia Law on Following too Closely

Under O.C.G.A. §40-6-49, there are a couple of ways a person can be found to be following too closely:

• The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicles and the traffic upon and the condition of the highway.
• Drivers must leave enough room when there is a vehicle towing another vehicle behind it to pass you and pull in front of you safely.
• If traveling in a caravan, you must still leave “sufficient space” between each vehicle so as to enable any other vehicle to enter and occupy such space without danger.
• Following too closely can also occur when the vehicle in front of you is stopped or slowing down to make a turn.

The question then becomes what does reasonable and prudent mean? Unfortunately, there is no set answer to this question and it is often a question left up to interpretation. 

Penalty for Following too Closely in Georgia

Whether or not an accident occurred from following too closely, the violation will add 3 points to your driving record. While three points does not seem substantial, an accumulation of 15 points in a 24 month period will result in your license being suspended. If you are under 21 years of age, 4 points on your license in 12 months will result in your license being suspended.

The potential fines for commercial drivers (CDL) driving commercial motor vehicles is the same, however, the potential insurance and employment impact is much larger.

Contact Us

To avoid points being added to your license, it is best to call an experienced following too closely attorney in Georgia today. Even though you can pay the ticket, it is best to have a Georgia Lawyer take a look at your case. However, if following too closely led to a DUI charge or another offense, you definitely need to consult with an attorney. Our office is here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call now for immediate help and receive a free case evaluation.