The logic is this: if someone is 25ft behind you, they have more space and reaction time to avoid hitting you. If they were only 5ft behind you, it drastically cuts down their space and reaction time. They usually can't even swerve out of the way onto the shoulder or change lanes when they are that close. And when they hit you from behind, it would literally be your *** (they are hitting).

You appear to be assuming they would hit you at either distance at the same speed (5ft vs. 25ft). I don't know why you are thinking that, because 25ft does give them more braking distance.

 

Yes, it does give them more distance, hence the reason it's safer to follow at a further distance. But my whole point is, IT'S THEIR FAULT, no matter what. If you hit anyone in the rear, it's YOUR fault. So if I'm going to get hit, I'd much rather get hit by someone riding my ***, as to one who's not. Typically, when people drive close to you, it means they're actually paying attention to the road/situation, as to the people who's lagging behind, perhaps reading a book, or talking on a cell phone.