Practice question

What should you do if you are being tailgated by a truck?

  1. Speed up to create more distance
  2. Maintain a steady speed and avoid sudden stops
  3. Brake hard to signal the driver
  4. Change lanes immediately without signaling

Answer: B — Maintain a steady speed and avoid sudden stops

Maintaining a steady speed and avoiding sudden stops is the best approach when being tailgated by a truck. This method minimizes the risk of an accident, as abrupt changes in speed can confuse the driver behind you, potentially leading to a rear-end collision. By keeping your speed consistent, you provide the truck driver with predictable behavior, allowing them to make safer driving decisions. Additionally, staying calm and composed is essential. Sudden braking, as suggested in one of the other options, could escalate the situation and increase the danger instead of decreasing it. Likewise, speeding up to create more distance can create a precarious situation, especially if the tailgater is unable to keep up or responds unpredictably. Changing lanes immediately without signaling can also lead to confusion or misjudgment by the truck driver, further exacerbating the hazard. By maintaining your speed while being mindful of your surroundings, you promote a safer driving environment for both yourself and the driver behind you.

Practice more: North Dakota Noncommercial Driver License Practice Test →