What should a driver do if they are being tailgated?

When a driver is being tailgated, the safest and most effective response is to change lanes safely to allow the tailgater to pass. This option prioritizes the safety of all road users, including both the driver and the person tailgating. By allowing the tailgater to move ahead, the driver eliminates the close proximity that can lead to potential collisions.

Creating distance by changing lanes reduces tension and anxiety, providing the tailgater with the opportunity to drive at the pace they desire. It also prevents the risk of being involved in a rear-end collision, which is more likely to occur if both vehicles are traveling in the same lane at a tight distance.

In contrast, speeding up or braking suddenly can increase danger. Speeding up can escalate the situation if the tailgater feels encouraged to chase, while suddenly braking could cause the tailgater to collide with the back of the vehicle. Ignoring the tailgater and continuing to drive could lead to road rage or escalate the situation unnecessarily. Thus, changing lanes is not only the safest choice but also the most responsible decision in this scenario.