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Writer's pictureBuddy Smith

Handling Aggressive Tailgaters

In today's society road rage is a very common occurrence. In many areas, shootings are a common reaction to tailgaters, motorists cutting each other off, and many other reactions.


There is no way to predict how drivers will react to other drivers' actions on the road. You are driving along, minding your own business and a vehicle comes flying up behind you. You tap your brakes to get their attention, asking them to slow down. They swerve past you and cut you off. You hit your horn or give them the "number 1". The next thing you know, they are shooting at you, and you are having to take evasive measures.


These types of incidents are not the time to let your anger drive your actions. Below are some suggestions on handling everyday situations that we encounter when driving. They apply for automobiles as well as motorcycles.


  • Stay calm and avoid aggressive behavior. If you display hand signs that let them know what you think of them, it'll usually only make things worse. I had a nephew that gave another driver the "finger" and ended up with his truck shot up.

  • Do not brake suddenly or engage in road rage. Don't race with them or "brake check" them. It'll only increase their rage and their aggression.

  • Move to the right lane to let them pass if it's safe to do so. Let them go past and get ahead of you.

  • Keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you. You can control the distance between you and the vehicles in front of you but you can't control what the guy behind you does.

  • If necessary, pull over to a safe location and let the tailgater pass. Letting them pass you and go on down the road will put distance between you and a potentially threatening situation.

  • Consider contacting authorities if you feel threatened or unsafe.


We hope these suggestions help make your day safer.



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