Tailgaters are a common issue on the road. Some drivers tailgate without realizing the danger, believing they’re following at a safe distance. Others tailgate intentionally, either out of frustration or because they’re in a rush.
If you have a tailgater behind you, it may be tempting to slam on your brakes to warn them to back off. However, this is extremely dangerous and can directly cause an accident. Moreover, if it’s clear that you aggressively braked to provoke contact, you could be held at least partially liable for the crash. So, what are the safer alternatives?
Encourage the tailgater to pass
The safest option is to get the tailgater to pass your vehicle. This removes them from the equation entirely and significantly reduces the risk of an accident. Here are a few ways to do it:
- On the interstate: Switch to the right lane whenever possible, as the left lane is meant for passing. Avoid staying in the left lane for longer than necessary.
- On smaller roads: Gradually reduce your speed by easing off the accelerator. There’s no need to brake abruptly. Slowing down gently makes it easier for the tailgater to pass when there is a gap in oncoming traffic.
- In busy areas: If the tailgater still refuses to pass or there’s heavy traffic, consider moving out of the way entirely. For instance, on residential streets, you could pull into a parking spot or driveway and let them go around. In city traffic, pulling into a parking lot and re-entering the road after they’ve passed may be a good solution.
If possible, do not engage with the trailgater at all, other than trying to get them to pass your car.
What if an accident happens?
Despite your best efforts, some tailgaters will still cause accidents. If you’re injured in such an incident, it’s crucial to understand how to seek financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other related expenses.