Thomas Carroll Blauvelt Esq.
Thomas Carroll Blauvelt

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Tailgating

Following another vehicle too closely on the road leads to a lot of accidents. With that in mind, Metuchen, NJ, police are always on the lookout for this illegal activity. Governed by NJSA 39:4-89, tailgating is something Metuchen drivers often do by accident and don’t realize they might wind up with a hefty New Jersey traffic ticket until they see the flashing police lights.

So how exactly do police determine whether you are tailgating? There’s no science to this determination, but generally speaking, they make a judgment call as to whether you are too close to prevent running into the car in front of you should that driver suddenly stop (this determination should take into account road, weather and traffic conditions at the time of the ticket or accident). For instance, the distance between cars driving on a freeway in rain will be different than on a sunny day on a residential street. Tailgating can be intentional or accidental, but one thing that is certain: A tailgating ticket is always a major headache.

Fines and penalties attached to a Metuchen tailgating ticket include:

  • Fines between $52 and $202
  • Five points on your New Jersey driving record
  • Potential 30-day driver’s license suspension

As you can see, dealing with a Metuchen tailgating ticket is not only expensive, but can also result in the loss of your cherished driving privileges, which can have a major impact on your personal and professional life. Even if a judge does not choose to suspend your license, the presence of five points on your record can be a problem for many drivers who already have points on their driving record. Additionally, drivers should be aware that an increase in insurance premiums is almost always certain in this scenario.

There are viable defenses to a tailgating ticket, including proving the distance behind the car you were following was reasonable given the circumstances or providing a justification for temporary tailgating. These tickets should be fought in almost every situation. What many people do not realize is that by paying your ticket, you are also admitting guilt and accepting the fines and penalties outlined above. In many situations, we can fight to get this charge reduced or dropped completely. The Law Offices of Thomas Carroll Blauvelt, LLC, can help.

Get A Free Consultation

If you have recently been ticked for tailgating in Metuchen, get in touch with the Law Offices of Thomas Carroll Blauvelt, LLC, before you pay your ticket. Give the Law Offices of Thomas Carroll Blauvelt, LLC, a call today to schedule your free consultation to discuss the circumstances of your traffic ticket. Working with an experienced attorney can save you time and money down the line. I am available 24/7 so pick up the phone today! Call 877-676-7729.

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