Practice question

What should you do if another driver is tailgating you?

  1. Speed up to get away
  2. Allow them to pass, if possible, and do not speed up
  3. Brake suddenly to force them to back off
  4. Ignore them completely

Answer: B — Allow them to pass, if possible, and do not speed up

When a driver is tailgating you, the safest and most effective response is to allow them to pass, if it is safe and feasible to do so. This approach helps to reduce tension and the likelihood of a collision. By not speeding up, you maintain a steady speed that enhances control of your vehicle, reducing the chance of an accident. Allowing the tailgater to pass also demonstrates a defensive driving technique, which prioritizes safety over confrontation. It is important to remain calm and not engage in aggressive behavior, as this can escalate the situation and create hazards for both drivers. Other options, such as speeding up or braking suddenly, can create more dangerous scenarios on the road. Speeding up might encourage the tailgater to continue following closely, while sudden braking could lead to a rear-end collision, placing you and others at greater risk. Ignoring the driver isn’t a viable solution either, as it fails to address the potential danger they pose, especially if they are distracted or impatient.

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