What to Do When Tailgated: A Quick Guide to Safe Driving

When you’re cruising along the road, the last thing you want is someone riding your tail like it’s their own personal racetrack. Tailgating can be unnerving, to say the least. If you're prepping for the ICBC British Columbia Written Exam in 2025, understanding how to handle a tailgater is crucial not just for your test, but for your safety on the road.

So, what should you do if another vehicle is tailgating you? Let’s break it down. The best move? Change lanes and let them pass. That’s your best bet. It minimizes the chances of an accident, reducing the pressure from behind. When you let that impatient driver zoom ahead, you maintain your speed and keep your calm. Remember, driving isn’t a race; it’s about safety first—and feeling rushed leads to mistakes.

Now, you might wonder why speeding up or slowing down isn’t ideal. Speeding up to create distance might seem like an instant fix but can actually throw you into more danger. Picture it: you speed up, and then the tailgater sees your speed increase. Things could spiral quickly, leading to a potential unsafe situation. You don’t want to give them the impression that it’s okay to tailgate you!

Slowing down may sound like a reasonable choice—hey, maybe you’re thinking you’re showing them who’s boss. But hold on! If that tailgater isn’t paying attention or doesn’t react fast enough, you could end up in a serious rear-end collision. Not exactly the outcome you were hoping for, right?

And what about just ignoring them? Sure, it might feel easier, but ignoring a tailgater isn’t going to magically make them disappear. It can escalate things, leaving you in a risky situation. Tailgating is dangerous not just for you but for them too. So create space and keep the drive safe for everyone.

Let’s tie this back to the BC driving landscape. In British Columbia, safe driving is a cornerstone of the ICBC driving curriculum. It’s not just about passing the exam; it’s about realizing the importance of road safety in your daily life. By matching knowledge with action, you not only ace your written exam, you also become a conscientious driver.

In summary, if you ever find yourself in the daunting situation of someone tailgating you, remember: change lanes and let them pass. You've got this! Keep practicing safe habits, stay calm behind the wheel, and you'll be ready for whatever the road throws your way—smooth rides and good vibes only. Safe travels, and good luck with your studies for that ICBC exam!