CDL Combination Vehicles TestDriving Combination Vehicles SafelyMedium
A commercial driver is operating a combination vehicle on a four-lane highway. The driver notices a vehicle closely following (tailgating) in the lane behind. What is the most appropriate defensive driving action?
- AMove to another lane as soon as safely possible.
- BIncrease your speed to create more distance from the tailgater.
- CTap your brakes lightly to warn the tailgater to back off.
- DIncrease your following distance from the vehicle ahead.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Increase your following distance from the vehicle ahead.
When being tailgated, increasing your following distance from the vehicle ahead provides you with more space and time to react to hazards. This extra space allows you to brake more gradually if needed, reducing the risk of a rear-end collision with the tailgater.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While moving lanes is an option, it may not always be safe or possible. Increasing following distance is a universally applicable initial defensive action.
- B. Increasing speed might encourage the tailgater to speed up as well, or you might exceed the safe speed for conditions.
- C. Tapping brakes can be misinterpreted as aggressive or cause the tailgater to brake suddenly, increasing collision risk.
Managing Tailgaters
When being tailgated by another vehicle, increase your following distance from the vehicle in front of you to create a safety cushion.
- Provides more reaction time and space.
- Allows for gradual braking, reducing rear-end collision risk.
- Avoids aggressive or risky maneuvers.
Memory trick: Tailgater's close? Give yourself prose (space)!