The distance between your vehicle and the one ahead or behind matters – you need enough space to respond to situations safely. The recommended rule is three seconds, which means if the lead vehicle passes an object, such as a road sign, it should take you three seconds to pass it.
And at times, such as in poor weather conditions, drivers may need to increase the safe following distance.
While you observe the safe following distance, the driver behind you may fail to do so. Due to drunkenness, distractions or carelessness, they may tailgate you. Here is what to do when this happens:
Stay calm
Understandably, it can be irritating when someone tailgates you. This is because you know they might crash into you should you brake suddenly. Nonetheless, it will be best to remain calm to make informed decisions.
Being angry, hooting, slamming on your brakes or using gestures to inform them to observe a safe following distance will take your concentration away from the road.
Let them pass
Accelerating to increase the safe following distance may be dangerous, and in some instances, the driver behind you may accelerate as well, especially if they are drunk or aggressive. Thus, it will be best to let them pass.
If you are on a multi-lane road, you should safely move to the right. If you are on a single-lane road, pull over at a gas station or an open parking lot.
Tailgating is one of the leading causes of car crashes. If a tailgater injures you, consider your options to receive the compensation you deserve.
