What is a potential consequence of following too closely?

Following too closely, often referred to as tailgating, can significantly increase the risk of accidents, particularly in emergency situations. When you are too close to the vehicle in front of you, your reaction time is severely limited. In the event that the vehicle ahead suddenly brakes or encounters an unexpected obstacle, having a shorter stopping distance may not allow you to respond adequately, which can lead to collisions.

Maintaining a safe following distance provides you with the necessary time to react to changes in traffic conditions. This distance is typically recommended to be at least three seconds behind the vehicle in front of you, allowing for adequate space to stop safely if the need arises. Therefore, the idea of reduced stopping time in an emergency when following too closely is incorrect in a practical sense, as it compromises your ability to stop in a safe and controlled manner.