What should you do if you are being tailgated?

If you are being tailgated, the most appropriate action is to change lanes or pull over to allow the tailgater to pass safely. This approach prioritizes safety for both yourself and the tailgater. By allowing the other vehicle to pass, you reduce the risk of a rear-end collision, which can occur if the tailgater misjudges the following distance or reacts abruptly.

Taking this action demonstrates defensive driving and shows consideration for the driver behind you, who may be in a hurry or distracted. It's important to maintain your composure and not engage in aggressive behavior, which can escalate the situation. This is particularly critical in high-traffic conditions or when driving on highways, where speed differentials can lead to dangerous situations.

Other options, such as speeding up to create distance, may not always be a safe choice since it can increase your risk of losing control or violating speed limits. Braking sharply could provoke a rear-end collision and is not a constructive way to handle the situation. Ignoring the tailgater and maintaining your speed fails to address the issue and could lead to dangerous encounters. Thus, allowing the other driver to pass is the safest and most responsible option.