Tailgaters can turn a pleasant journey into a stressful and dangerous one. It may be hard to understand why a driver is following too closely, but there are several possible reasons.
Some tailgaters lack understanding of safe following distances, some are not paying attention and others do it on purpose. So what can you do if someone is following too closely behind you?
Do not make the situation any worse
Some of the solutions that might pop into your mind could put you and your passengers in more danger than you are already in. Examples could include hitting your brakes to try to warn the other driver to stay back or lifting your foot off the gas pedal without actually braking in the hope they will suddenly realize they are way too close and back off.
Doing things like that could potentially see you take the blame if a collision occurs and even face charges if the police see or learn what you did. Flipping the driver the bird out the side window or via your rearview mirror is also inadvisable, as some drivers could get enraged by that and react badly.
Get out of their way
Even though someone following you too closely is in the wrong, it’s often easiest if you just get out of their way rather than hoping they will change their behavior. If it is safe to change lanes or pull off the road, this can allow them to pass you.
If things do end in a crash, be sure to seek legal guidance to understand your options. Even a low-speed hit from the rear can leave you with problematic and painful injuries.