If you’re being tailgated by another vehicle, stay calm, cautiously move over, and avoid confrontation. It’s natural to get frustrated, but your first priority is your own safety and the safety of the drivers around you.
1. Don’t freak out
The most important step is to stay calm. Panicking can cloud your judgment and lead to poor decisions on the road. Keep driving as predictably as possible.
2. Don’t brake suddenly
Some drivers tailgate without realizing it. Your instinct might be to tap the brakes so they back off, but this can cause a rear-end collision, especially if the driver behind you isn’t paying attention.
3. Maintain a consistent speed
Keep a steady, legal speed. Speeding up or slowing down erratically makes the situation worse and raises the risk of a crash.
4. Cautiously move or pull over
If you’re in the left lane on the interstate or a multi-lane highway, carefully move to the right. Waiting for the tailgater to go around you puts other drivers at risk, and you shouldn’t be cruising in the fast lane anyway.
If there’s no other lane, find a safe, well-lit spot with enough room to pull over and let the driver pass.
5. Signal your intentions
Use your turn signal before you move over or pull off. Smooth, predictable moves keep you from surprising the tailgater or anyone else around you.
6. Avoid confrontation
Engaging with an aggressive driver only escalates things. No hand gestures. No scowls. You never know who is one spark away from lashing out.
7. Report reckless driving
You’re not tattling. You’re preventing a crash. If the tailgater is driving aggressively or dangerously, note the license plate, make, and model, and report it. In Florida, you can reach the Florida Highway Patrol by dialing *FHP (*347). If the driver is an immediate danger to others, call 911.
Is tailgating illegal in Florida?
Yes. Florida law (§ 316.0895) says a driver can’t follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, based on speed, traffic, and road conditions. There’s no fixed distance. It depends on the situation.
What if the tailgater hits you?
If a tailgater rear-ends you:
- Call the police and get the crash on record. Here’s how to report a car accident in Florida.
- Get checked by a doctor, even if you feel fine. Florida’s no-fault law and PIP coverage affects how your medical bills get paid.
- Take photos, get the other driver’s information, and never admit guilt at the scene.
- Talk to a lawyer before giving the insurance company a recorded statement.
Rear-end crashes often point to the trailing driver, but the details still matter. See what affects a rear-end collision settlement in Florida.
Frequently asked questions
Should I brake-check a tailgater?
No. Braking suddenly can cause a rear-end collision and can make you partly responsible.
How do I report a tailgater in Florida?
Dial *FHP (*347) to reach the Florida Highway Patrol. If the driver is an immediate threat, call 911.
What should I do if I’m in the left lane and someone is tailgating me?
Signal and move to the right when it’s safe. Let the driver pass.
Hurt in a crash with an aggressive driver? Call Wilkes & Mee. Our Jacksonville car accident lawyers will investigate the crash and handle the insurance company for you.
