Why Following Too Closely is One of Nigeria’s Deadliest Driving Habits

It’s a common sight on Nigerian roads: cars, buses, and even fuel tankers driving bumper-to-bumper at high speeds. Whether on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway or inside Abuja traffic, tailgating has become a dangerous norm.

Also Read: The 7-Second Rule: The Life-Saving Driving Habit Most Nigerians Ignore

Yet, following too closely or tailgating is one of the leading causes of rear-end collisions in Nigeria. Many drivers don’t realize that they’re only one split second away from disaster, especially in wet conditions or on bad roads.

This article breaks down why tailgating is so deadly, the psychology behind it, and how to protect yourself from this silent killer on Nigerian highways.

What is Tailgating?

Tailgating occurs when a driver follows another vehicle too closely without leaving enough space to stop safely.

The recommended safe following distance is at least 3 seconds in dry weather or up to 7 seconds in bad conditions. In Nigeria, many drivers follow with barely a 1-second gap.

Why It’s So Common in Nigeria

Several road culture and infrastructure factors contribute to tailgating:

• Impatience: Many drivers want to “pressure” the vehicle in front to move faster.
• Heavy Traffic: In Lagos and Port Harcourt, tight gaps feel “normal.”
• Inexperience: New or untrained drivers often don’t understand stopping distance.
• Bad Roads: Sudden braking to dodge potholes leads to frequent rear-end hits.

The Science of Stopping Distance

Stopping distance = Reaction Time + Braking Distance

At 100 km/h:

• Reaction Time (~1.5 seconds): You travel ~42 meters before even touching the brakes.
• Braking Distance: Adds another 50–60 meters.

So, you need at least 100meters to stop safely at 100 km/h, yet many Nigerian drivers follow within 10-20 meters.

Real-Life Scenarios from Nigerian Roads

• Benin–Ore Road (2024): A multiple vehicle crash killed 6 when a trailer braked suddenly and the bus behind couldn’t stop in time.
• Lagos 3rd Mainland Bridge: Rear-end crashes are common due to fast traffic and short gaps.
• Rainy Season Accidents: Tyres lose grip, but drivers don’t increase their distance.

Risks of Tailgating

• Rear-End Collisions: The most direct and frequent result.
• Multi-Car Pileups: Especially on expressways.
• Aggressive Driving Conflicts: Tailgating often leads to road rage.
• Brake Failure Accidents: Drivers who tailgate constantly may overuse brakes, leading to failure.

How to Avoid the Danger Zone

Use the 3-Second Rule

Pick a marker (pole, tree, sign), count “one-thousand-one… one-thousand-three” after the vehicle in front passes it.

If you pass it before 3 seconds, you’re too close.

Double the Gap in Bad Conditions

In rain, fog, or at night, use a 6–7 second gap.

Stay Out of Tailgaters’ Way

If someone tailgates you, move lanes or let them pass. Don’t brake suddenly.

Conclusion

Following too closely is one of the most preventable causes of crashes on Nigerian roads. It may feel like you’re saving time, but the cost could be your life or someone else’s. Give space. Stay alive. Let’s change our road habits, one safe distance at a time.