How should you handle a situation where someone is tailgating you?

Prepare for the American Safety Council Defensive Driving Exam. Utilize interactive flashcards and multiple-choice questions complete with hints and comprehensive explanations. Enhance your readiness for exam day!

The appropriate way to handle a situation where someone is tailgating you is to gradually increase your following distance and allow them to pass. This approach prioritizes safety for both yourself and the tailgating driver.

By maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, you provide yourself with ample time to react to any sudden stops or emergencies. Increasing your following distance also conveys to the tailgater that you are not in a hurry, thereby reducing their anxiety or frustration. Creating additional space allows you to focus on your driving without the pressure of someone closely following you.

Letting the tailgater pass is crucial because it removes the risk of a rear-end collision. When you allow them to overtake you safely, you mitigate potential danger for both parties, promoting safer road conditions. In contrast, aggressive maneuvers such as sudden braking or changing lanes without caution can escalate tensions and lead to accidents. Speeding up only encourages the tailgater’s aggressive driving behavior, which can further compromise safety.

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