Drivers Who Follow Too Closely Risk Facing a Penalty in Colorado

Thousands of vehicles drive on Colorado's streets each day, headed for different destinations across the state. Being a responsible motorist means abiding by Colorado's traffic laws and regulations. This also helps keep the roadways as safe as possible for the many people using them.

Running a red light, not wearing a seatbelt, or speeding through a school zone are some obvious reasons why a driver could get pulled over and ticketed by police. However, other traffic infractions in Colorado are either lesser known or maybe a little confusing to understand.

RELATED: Get Up To Speed With How Colorado's 'Move Over' Law Has Changed

For example, most drivers are aware that following too closely to another vehicle could result in a penalty - but just how close is too close?

Get our free mobile app

Colorado Law C.R.S. 42-4-1008 also states that drivers must allow sufficient space between each vehicle or combination of vehicles, so as to enable any other vehicle to enter and occupy such space without danger. This applies to cars and trucks that are towing another vehicle too.

LOOK: 6 Reasons Why You Can Be Ticketed For Your License Plate in Colorado

Any person who violates the laws of following too closely is committing a Class A traffic infraction, which means it is a civil penalty. Civil Penalty traffic citations are classified as non-criminal.

In Colorado, punishments for tailgating another vehicle range from a fine of $15 to $100, plus court costs and surcharges. A following too closely ticket could also result in 4 points getting docked from your driver's license. Depending on the situation, it could cause a rise in insurance rates and even a potential lawsuit, especially if injuries occur. In some cases, people who are guilty of following too closely are also charged with careless driving, which is classified as a criminal offense.

It should be noted that in Colorado, the "following too closely" law does not apply to funeral processions. However, other forms of caravans and motorcades being driven upon any roadway outside of a business or residence district could face a penalty.