Which of the following actions is appropriate when a vehicle is tailgating you?

Which of the following actions is appropriate when a vehicle is tailgating you?

• A. Decrease your speed dramatically
• B. Accelerate quickly
• C. Maintain a steady speed
• D. Signal and change lanes

Answer: (C)

When a vehicle is tailgating you, maintaining a steady speed is the appropriate action to take. This approach ensures that you do not create an unpredictable situation that could increase the risk of an accident. By keeping your speed consistent, you allow the tailgater to make a decision about how to respond. Decreasing your speed dramatically may frustrate the driver behind you, potentially leading to a rear-end collision. Accelerating quickly could also escalate the situation, as it may encourage the tailgater to follow more aggressively or attempt to pass in an unsafe manner. Changing lanes can be a good strategy, but it depends on the traffic conditions around you. If changing lanes is not safe or feasible, simply maintaining a steady speed while being aware of your surroundings remains a responsible choice. This balanced approach not only keeps you safe but also gives the tailgating driver the opportunity to pass you if they choose to do so.

When a vehicle is tailgating you, maintaining a steady speed is the appropriate action to take. This approach ensures that you do not create an unpredictable situation that could increase the risk of an accident. By keeping your speed consistent, you allow the tailgater to make a decision about how to respond.

Decreasing your speed dramatically may frustrate the driver behind you, potentially leading to a rear-end collision. Accelerating quickly could also escalate the situation, as it may encourage the tailgater to follow more aggressively or attempt to pass in an unsafe manner. Changing lanes can be a good strategy, but it depends on the traffic conditions around you. If changing lanes is not safe or feasible, simply maintaining a steady speed while being aware of your surroundings remains a responsible choice.

This balanced approach not only keeps you safe but also gives the tailgating driver the opportunity to pass you if they choose to do so.