What does SC say about dealing with slow drivers? You could be violating this state law
It’s annoying when the vehicle behind you is following too close. However, it’s also annoying when the person in front of you is going too slow.
But is it illegal to slam on your brakes in an effort to get the tailgater to back off, or drive too closely in an effort to get the person to go faster?
Is it illegal to brake check?
“Brake checking” is a practice in which drivers slam on their brakes to frighten a driver who is traveling too close.
And while such practice can cause an accident, there is no specific South Carolina law that says brake checking is illegal. However, it could be considered reckless driving by police.
State law says that a person can be charged with reckless driving if they operate a vehicle “in such a manner as to indicate either a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” “Willful” can be considered doing something deliberately.
Violating the law could result in up to a $200 fine, plus up to 30 days in jail. It could also affect your driver’s license.
Is it illegal to tailgate?
Following another vehicle too closely is a serious offense in South Carolina.
State law says that a driver should not follow another vehicle “more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicles and the traffic upon and the condition of the highway.”
Law enforcement can pull over a vehicle based on this law. The driver could receive points on their license and those who with an out-of-state driver’s license could face penalties in the state in which they live.
