Which statement accurately reflects the dangers of following too closely?

Following too closely, often referred to as tailgating, can indeed agitate other drivers on the road. When one vehicle follows another at a close distance, it creates an environment of pressure and tension, potentially leading to erratic driving behavior from the driver being tailgated. This situation can provoke anxiety and impatience, causing the driver in front to make abrupt maneuvers or increase their speed, which may escalate the risk of accidents and road rage incidents.

In contrast, the idea that following closely helps to reduce overall travel time is misguided, as it typically does not lead to faster travel and can increase the chances of an accident, thereby causing delays. In heavy traffic, following too closely can also be especially dangerous since it does not allow enough reaction time to stop safely if traffic suddenly slows. Furthermore, it is not considered a preferred practice in safe driving guidelines, as maintaining a sufficient distance between vehicles is essential for safe driving and accident prevention. Ensuring an adequate following distance allows for better visibility and reaction time, contributing to overall road safety.