How to deal with tailgaters
If you’re on the road and you notice a driver right behind your car and way too close for comfort, this is called a tailgater. According to 2024 statistics, tailgating accounted for 20% of rear-end collisions.[1]
While tailgating can be an annoying and dangerous behavior, there are safe ways to deal with it. Read on to learn more about tailgating and tips on what to do to help prevent an accident.
What is tailgating?
Tailgating is when one car follows another too closely. It can easily lead to accidents, so it’s important to drive carefully when on the road with tailgaters. To warn the tailgater behind you that you’re slowing, tap your brake lightly a few times. If you notice a tailgater behind you, it’s best to change lanes and let them pass.[2]
How to deal with tailgaters
Tailgate drivers can be very frustrating to deal with. If you notice someone tailgating you, follow these tips on how to proceed safely:[3]
- Stay calm: Keep composed to prevent emotions from getting the best of you and causing a serious accident.
- Keep a comfortable distance: Pay attention to the cars around you, and if one is tailgating close to you, stay far away.
- Let the tailgater pass: If the tailgater is behind you, switch lanes or even pull over to let them pass.
- Maintain your speed: Stay consistent with your speed so that other drivers can safely pass if they must. Using cruise control when conditions allow helps keep your speed predictable for you and other drivers.
What is a safe distance between cars while driving?
Make sure to follow the 3-second rule when determining whether you or another car on the road is driving at a safe distance. The rule says that when a car in front of you passes any point, you should be able to count to 3 before you cross that same point. The more distance between cars, the more time to react.[4]
What should you do in a tailgating accident?
You should handle a tailgating accident like you would handle any other car accident: Get help, call the police, collect the necessary information, document everything and then contact your insurance company for next steps.
Follow our tips on how to spot and deal with tailgaters to make your driving experience safer and more enjoyable. Also, make sure you and your vehicle are covered with the right insurance for you.
Sources
[1] “The Ultimate List of Driving Statistics for 2025,” driving-tests.org/driving-statistics/ (accessed January 2026).
[2] “Tailgating,” driversed.com/resources/terms/tailgating/ (accessed January 2026).
[3] “Don’t Get Tackled: How to Deal with Tailgaters Safely,” firestonecompleteautocare.com/blog/driving/what-to-do-someone-tailgating-you/ (accessed January 2026).
[3] “Tailgating,” driversed.com/resources/terms/tailgating/ (accessed January 2026).
[4] “What Is a Safe Following Distance?” driversed.com/trending/what-safe-following-distance/ (accessed January 2026).