Which is a safe response when tailgated?

• A. Increase following distance, check mirrors, and move to the next lane if safe.
• B. Slam the brakes to scare them.
• C. Stay in the same lane and accelerate.
• D. Stop suddenly to force the tailgater to pass.

Answer: (A)

When someone is tailgating, the goal is to reduce risk by creating space and avoiding aggressive moves. The safest approach is to increase the following distance from the car ahead, which gives you more time to react if traffic slows or if the tailgater suddenly changes speed. Checking your mirrors helps you stay aware of the tailgater’s behavior and any other hazards behind you. If it’s safe, moving to the next lane to let the tailgater pass removes pressure and lowers the chance of a rear-end collision. Together, these actions maintain control and reduce risk in a tense situation.

Slamming the brakes can surprise the tailgater and provoke a crash. Staying in the same lane and accelerating doesn’t lessen the risk and may invite closer following. Stopping suddenly to force the tailgater to pass is dangerous and could lead to a severe accident.