Driving with another driver too close for comfort behind you can be unsettling. You might be only too aware of how little it would take for a collision to occur, making you nervous about braking or slowing in case they run into you.
So what should you do if you don’t like how close the driver behind you is to you?
What to avoid
First, let’s look at what you need to avoid, which is making your situation worse or breaking the law. Don’t try to “outrun” the driver, especially if that would take you over the speed limit and could make it more likely that you’ll cause a crash.
Avoid gestures, light flashing, brake checking or any other form of sending the driver a message to get further back. They may take them as signs of aggression from you and react with even more aggression.
Try to make it easy for them to pass
Some roads do not give you much option but to continue driving. Others make it easier for you to move to one side so the driver can pass you and leave you free to carry on at your own speed.
Sometimes, the simplest way to let someone pass is to pull off the road altogether to just let them pass. While this may cost you time, a crash would cost you much more. Be careful if you pull over and stop, though. Some drivers who tailgate are aggressive and may use your stop as an opportunity to confront you.
If you have been injured by a tailgater, don’t assume you will get adequate compensation. Seek legal guidance to increase the chances you do.