If someone is tailgating you, the most important thing to do for your own safety is to remove yourself from the situation. This typically means trying to let the tailgater pass your vehicle as soon as possible.
Exactly what tactics you use to do this depends on the situation. If you are on the interstate or a multilane road, for example, it may be as simple as merging into a different lane. If you are on a back road or a road with a wide shoulder, you may consider pulling over to the side of the road if it is safe to do so. If you are driving in an urban area, the best option may be to turn into a driveway or parking lot.
In some situations, slowing down can help. The tailgater may be trying to pass you on a two-lane road, for example, but there may be oncoming traffic. If you slow down slightly, it gives them a larger gap to complete the pass safely.
Is there anything you should avoid?
Yes, you should always avoid escalating the situation. Do not drive aggressively. Do not take reckless actions that could make an accident more likely.
This is important because some people will try to “brake check” a tailgater. They suddenly hit the brakes, thinking the tailgater will have to slam on the brakes to avoid a rear-end accident. But this is a very dangerous way to address the issue and can make a crash far more likely. Instead of acting aggressively, focus on safely allowing the tailgater to get around your vehicle.
Have you been involved in an accident?
Tailgaters cause accidents every day, so you could be injured due to another driver’s negligence, even if you do everything correctly. If you are, then you need to understand how to seek appropriate financial compensation.
