Navigating the roads in the Central Valley requires constant vigilance. 

In Kings County, CA, officers frequently issue citations for following too close or tailgating. This violation is a significant traffic infraction that can impact your record and your wallet.

The Subjectivity of Following Too Close or Tailgating

CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 21703, Driving, Overtaking, and Passing requires a "reasonable and prudent" distance between vehicles. The law does not define a specific number of feet. This lack of official measurement makes the ticket highly subjective.

“The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon, and the condition of, the roadway.”

In Hanford, CA, an officer’s perspective varies based on their position. A safe gap to a driver may look like following too close or tailgating to an officer. These tickets are often based on an individual's opinion.

Possible Defenses and Enforcement Mistakes

You have the right to challenge the officer's interpretation. 

A skilled attorney can look for inconsistencies in the official report. Common areas where the prosecution's case may be weak include:

• Obstructed View: The officer’s line of sight was blocked by other vehicles.
• Erratic Lead Vehicle: The car in front suddenly braked without cause. “Brake checking” is a dangerous act of road rage where a driver abruptly slams on their brakes to force the car behind them to stop or overreact.
• Merging Interference: Another vehicle cut into your lane, closing the gap.
• Environmental Factors: Heavy fog or sun glare distorted the perception of distance.
• Lack of Evidence: The case relies entirely on a subjective visual estimate.

Resolving Your Ticket at the Hanford Courthouse

Kings County tickets are processed through the Hanford Courthouse. 

The driver has the option of pleading guilty and paying the fine, possibly attending Traffic Violator School (TVS) if eligible, or disputing the charge with a Trial by Written Declaration (TWD) or a trial with a traffic court judge. 

Always discuss the strength of your options with a Central Valley traffic attorney with experience and knowledge of the Hanford Courthouse procedures.  

You or your representative must appear there for trial. Paying the fine results in a NOTS point on your DMV record, which typically leads to a raise in insurance premiums for up to three years. 

A conviction for following too close or tailgating leads to higher insurance. While traffic school might be an option, it does not remove the fine, and a TWD might box you into a corner. Always discuss these options with a traffic ticket attorney. 

Protect Your Rights in Kings County, CA

Don't let a subjective judgment call dictate your financial future. Bigger & Harman evaluates possible results for every client based on the facts of the circumstances. We understand the specific procedures of the Kings County court system.

If you are pulled over, remain polite and accept the citation. Contact a professional before your court date at the Hanford Courthouse. We can often handle the entire process on your behalf.

Call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300 for assistance. Se habla Español 859-1177. Email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com or use our secure website contact form.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section

Q: What is the fine for following too close or tailgating?

A: Although the fine is around $238 in Kings County, the increase in insurance premiums over the years, due to a record of a paid fine staying on the driver's record, could cost an additional $825 annually for full coverage, according toBankrate.com. 

Q: Can I attend traffic school for this violation?

A: Yes, if you are eligible. Always discuss this option with a traffic attorney to avoid boxing yourself into a corner by pleading guilty, paying the full fine amount and tuition if you don’t meet the eligibility requirements. 

Q: Is there a set distance I must maintain to avoid a tailgating ticket?

A: No, the law requires a "reasonable and prudent" distance for current conditions.

References:

CA VC Section 21703, Driving, Overtaking, and Passing

The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2026.

The CA DMV Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) Webpage.