What should be your response to a driver tailgating you?

The best response to a driver tailgating you is to change lanes and allow them to pass. This action prioritizes safety for both you and the aggressive driver behind you. Tailgating can indicate that the following driver is impatient or unwilling to maintain a safe distance, and escalating the situation by speeding up or braking suddenly could lead to dangerous outcomes, such as a rear-end collision.

By changing lanes, you remove yourself from the tailgating driver’s way, which can alleviate tension and reduce the risk of a potential crash. This approach reflects a defensive driving mindset, where the goal is to minimize risk and ensure the safety of all road users.

Continuing to drive as normal or ignoring the tailgater misses the opportunity to diffuse the situation. Instead, proactively creating space can help maintain a safer driving environment.