Following Too Closely (Tailgating) Fine Calculator — Canada

Following too closely under Highway Traffic Act s.158 carries a set fine of $110 and 4 demerit points. If you fight the ticket and are convicted, or the officer elects to have you summoned, a justice can impose a fine of up to $1,000.

Following too closely carries 4 demerit points in Ontario and Alberta, and 3 penalty points in British Columbia. It is one of the higher-point minor moving violations because of its strong link to rear-end collisions.

Yes. Following too closely is a minor moving conviction that typically increases premiums by roughly 10% to 20% for three years. If the tailgating leads to a rear-end collision, the at-fault accident compounds the increase.

In almost all cases, yes. The following driver is presumed responsible for leaving a safe stopping distance. Rebutting that presumption is difficult and usually requires evidence the lead vehicle acted unpredictably, such as brake-checking or reversing.