Should you decrease your following distance if someone is following you too closely?

The rationale behind decreasing your following distance when someone is tailgating is primarily about safety and managing the risk of a rear-end collision. If you feel pressured by a vehicle behind you that is following too closely, reducing your speed gradually and increasing the gap between your vehicle and the one in front can create space. This action allows for better control of the situation and helps to avoid abrupt changes that could lead to a crash.

In addition, maintaining a safe following distance provides a buffer that can give you more time to react to any unexpected stops or conditions ahead, which is crucial when dealing with aggressive tailgating. Adapting your driving to maintain safety is more effective than simply keeping your speed constant, especially under pressure from another driver. Assistance from others on the road can often lead to safer driving habits and less frustration for all involved.