FRANKLIN, Tenn. (WKRN) — A new initiative from one police department in Williamson County is encouraging drivers to slow down.

Ahead of Memorial Day weekend, the Franklin Police Department urged drivers to watch their speeds to prevent crashes during the "Give Tailgating a Brake" campaign.

As part of the campaign, police said they want to remind drivers about rear-end collisions, which usually occur when vehicles follow too closely.

To support the campaign, officers with the police department's traffic unit placed signs around the city. Officers Domenico Buffa and Robert Gibson set up signs at busy intersections in the city that read, "Less Space, More Risk," reminding that space can make a big impact in preventing crashes.

According to Franklin police, drivers need to remember the following tips:

• Use the three-second rule: When the vehicle in front of you passes, count three full seconds. If you reach the same point before finishing the count, you're too close.
• Leave extra room in poor conditions: Wet roads and low visibility require increased following distances.
• Watch your speed
• Minimize distractions

Officials added following too close, also known as "tailgating," was reportedly the leading factor in crashes throughout Franklin, accounting for approximately 22.4% of all reported collisions.

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/middle-tn-neighborhood-news/franklin-police-begin-give-tailgating-a-brake-campaign-to-help-reduce-crashes/