What Should You Do When Someone Is Tailgating You in South Carolina?
Tailgating is a dangerous behavior. This driving behavior significantly increases the risk of accidents. When you encounter a tailgater while driving, it is crucial that you know how to handle the situation. Knowing how to handle a tailgater is vital for your safety and the safety of other road users. This article discusses what you should do when someone is tailgating you in South Carolina.
What Is Tailgating?
Tailgating is a dangerous driving behavior that involves following another vehicle too closely. It is when the rear driver fails to leave enough space between their vehicle and the one in front. Tailgating is dangerous because it significantly reduces the tailgating driver’s reaction time. Tailgating increases the risk of rear-end collisions.
So, what is a safe following distance? It is recommended to put a minimum distance of three seconds between you and the vehicle in front. Determining a three-second distance is relatively easy. When driving behind another car, pick a roadside landmark, such as a tree or overhead road sign. Observe the time it takes the vehicle in front of you to pass that landmark, then count how much time it takes you to pass the same marker. If it takes you at least three seconds to pass it, you are keeping a safe following distance. Otherwise, increase your following distance. It is vital to note that the three-second rule is recommended during ideal conditions. You should increase the following distance accordingly when road and weather conditions are not ideal.
People tailgate for various reasons. Often, this dangerous driving behavior is a result of impatience, distracted driving, aggressive driving, inexperience, and lack of awareness.
What To Do if Someone Is Tailgating You
When you notice the driver behind you tailgating you, here is what you should do;
Remain Calm and Avoid Aggressive Behavior
The most vital thing to do when someone is tailgating you is to stay calm. Reacting aggressively may escalate the situation. Don’t slam on your brakes or make rude gestures that could provoke the tailgating driver. Instead, take deep breaths and focus on your driving.
Maintain a Consistent Speed
Suddenly speeding up, slowing down, or stopping after you notice a tailgater can increase the chances of a collision. Maintain a consistent speed so the tailgater knows what to expect. Drive within the speed limit to remain predictable.
Do Not Brake Check
When you notice a tailgater, you may be tempted to engage in brake checking. However, you should avoid this dangerous behavior. Brake checking is when you slam on your brakes to signal the tailgater to back off. This can result in a rear-end collision as the tailgater will be caught off guard and won’t have enough time to react.
Let the Tailgater Pass
Move over or pull over and allow the tailgating driver to pass you if possible. However, before changing lanes or pulling over, signal your intentions using your turn signals.
Report the Tailgater
If the tailgating driver is driving recklessly or aggressively, it may be necessary to report them. Reporting allows law enforcement to take necessary measures to keep you and other road users safe.
Legal Help Is Available
In the event you are involved in an accident due to a tailgating driver, our Charleston car accident lawyer at the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm can help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
Source:
travelers.com/resources/auto/travel/3-second-rule-for-safe-following-distance#:~:text=READ%20TRANSCRIPT-,The%20Three%2DSecond%20Rule,-Increasing%20the%20distance
