What should you do if another driver is tailgating you?

When another driver is tailgating you, the best course of action is to change lanes or gradually slow down to allow them to pass. This approach prioritizes safety and minimizes the risk of a rear-end collision. By changing lanes, you provide the tailgater with an opportunity to move ahead, which can relieve any pressure they may feel from being close behind you.

Gradually slowing down offers a controlled way to increase the distance between you and the tailgater, allowing them the chance to overtake you without the abruptness that could lead to an unsafe situation. It's important to remain calm and not engage in any aggressive behaviors, as this can escalate tensions on the road.

Other options, like speeding up, could lead to unsafe driving behavior and potentially increase the likelihood of an accident. Sudden braking could provoke an even more dangerous situation, as the tailgater may not have enough time to react. Ignoring the tailgater completely does not address the risk they pose, as remaining unresponsive may keep the unsafe driving dynamic ongoing. Thus, changing lanes or gradually slowing down is the most effective and safest response.