Perhaps Thad was following too close for conditions?
I doubt that a citation would've been issued if if Thad had struck a car from behind, don't you?
Do we say it is impossible? No. But taking a lane reduces many risks. Inattentive driving is not a risk that is reduced by taking a lane. (Nor does cowering in the gravel along the roadway seem to reduce the risk of inattentive driving either.)