Is it true that most rear-end crashes are caused by following too closely?

The statement that most rear-end crashes are caused by following too closely is accurate. Following too closely, or tailgating, reduces the driver's ability to react in time to the vehicle in front, leading to crashes when that vehicle slows down or stops suddenly.

When a driver maintains an inadequate following distance, they have less time to stop safely, which often results in colliding with the rear of another vehicle. This behavior is particularly dangerous in situations where traffic patterns change frequently or when unexpected stops occur, making it crucial for drivers to maintain a safe following distance. By doing so, they can provide themselves with the necessary time to react to any sudden changes on the road, thus decreasing the likelihood of a rear-end collision.

Other options do not accurately reflect the broader causes of rear-end crashes. For instance, suggesting it's only true if the vehicle in front is stopped fails to acknowledge that crashes can occur even when the vehicle is moving but the following distance is not adequate. Similarly, the comment about wet roads pertains to driving conditions rather than the fundamental cause of following too closely.