What to Do When a Driver Tailgates You

Tailgating: The Road Rager You Didn't Invite

You’ve probably been there — cruising down the road when suddenly, someone comes up behind you like they’re in a NASCAR race! Tailgating is not just annoying; it’s downright dangerous. But before you start wishing for a magic wand to make that driver disappear, let’s talk about what you should actually do when someone is tailgating you.

Stay Calm and Collected

First things first, take a deep breath. Staying calm can be tougher than getting a kid to eat vegetables, but trust me, it’s essential. You know what? Panicking or getting angry can lead to making rash decisions — and rash decisions can mean trouble.

So, let’s break it down. If another driver is tailgating you, the golden rule is: Increase your following distance and allow them to pass if it’s safe. That’s right, folks! Just keep it chill.

Why This Method Works

By creating a greater distance between your car and the one in front of you, you’re giving yourself more time to react to any sudden stops or emergencies. Imagine you’re at a red light and it turns green, but the car ahead of you suddenly stops. With that extra distance, you can brake without worry or, if need be, shift lanes safely.

And let’s be real: Often, tailgaters are just in a rush. Whether they’re distracted by a phone call or late for dinner, giving them the chance to zip ahead takes the pressure off you. Think of it as not just saving your sanity, but potentially avoiding a collision!

What Not to Do

Alright, let’s talk about the no-gos.

• Increasing your speed: Seriously, don’t try to outrun them. While it might feel satisfying in the moment, it can lead to incredibly dangerous driving behavior — and potentially accidents if you’re speeding (which we don’t want).

• Braking abruptly: Bad idea, my friend! By slamming on those brakes, you risk a rear-end collision because that tailgater is too close to react in time. Not only would you be creating an unsafe situation for yourself, but also for them.

• Changing lanes immediately: This one can be a bit tricky. Sometimes it makes sense, but if there isn’t a clear and safe opportunity to switch, you might end up making a sudden move that could be reckless. Yikes!

The Bottom Line: It’s About Safety

At the end of the day, it’s all about safety — for you, your passengers, and even that tailgater. We’ve puzzled over whether letting someone pass is a sign of weakness or not; here’s the truth: it’s a sign of maturity and awareness on the road. Think of it this way: rather than escalating a potentially stressful scenario, you’re diffusing it. This approach not only enhances your driving confidence but helps cultivate a safer driving atmosphere for everyone.

So, next time you find yourself in that oh-so-fun situation of being tailgated, remember to take a deep breath, increase your following distance, and — if it’s safe — let that driver pass. You’ll handle those tailgaters like a pro and keep the roads a little safer for everybody!