Following another vehicle too closely, commonly called tailgating, isn’t just rude; it’s dangerous. In 2024, there were over 1,600 rear-end collisions in East Baton Rouge Parish that resulted in injuries. These made up almost a third of all crashes in the parish that year, making rear-end collisions the most common type of crash by far.

If you’ve ever felt anxiety when a car hugs your bumper on the highway, you’re not alone. Whether the person behind you is distracted, impatient, or simply reckless, tailgating increases the risk of a serious crash. While speeding up or slamming the brakes might be tempting, those reactions often worsen the situation. Staying calm and focused is your best defense.

Use the following tips to stay in control and avoid turning a close call into a collision. If a crash does happen, a Baton Rouge car crash lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Why Tailgating Is So Dangerous

When drivers follow too closely, they have less time to react if the car in front suddenly slows or stops. At high speeds, this often leads to violent rear-end collisions. Even at slower speeds, the impact can cause serious and painful injuries like whiplash and spinal damage.

Under Louisiana law (RS 32:81), drivers are required to maintain a safe following distance. Failing to do so can result in a traffic citation and be used as evidence of fault if a crash occurs.

The flow of traffic can change in an instant, whether it’s from debris in the lane, a car merging, or a pedestrian stepping into the crosswalk. Everyone on the road is at greater risk when someone eliminates the standard safety buffer by tailgating the car in front.

What To Do If Someone Tailgates You

Seeing another vehicle riding your bumper can trigger anxiety, frustration, or anger, but a level-headed response is critical to ensuring your safety on the road.

Take the following steps to stay safe and prevent the situation from escalating:

Maintain a Steady Speed

Avoid brake-checking to try to send a message. Sudden moves can cause a crash and may even be considered careless operation under Louisiana law, placing you at fault. Instead, keep a consistent speed. A steady pace is less likely to provoke the tailgater and helps maintain control of the situation.

Let Them Pass

If you’re in the left lane, safely move to the right when possible, even if you’re going the speed limit. Letting the tailgater pass removes the immediate danger.

On single-lane roads, look for a safe place to pull over, such as a turnout, parking lot, or wide shoulder. Allowing the aggressive driver to go ahead protects you and everyone around you.

Keep Your Eyes on the Road Ahead

Monitoring the tailgater through your rearview mirror is tempting, but doing so can distract you from potential hazards in front of you. Stay focused on traffic signals, road signs, and the vehicles ahead.

Leave extra space between your car and the one in front so you won’t be forced to brake suddenly. Staying alert helps you anticipate changes and avoid sudden reactions that could lead to a crash.

Don’t Engage With the Tailgater

Avoid making eye contact, gestures, or reactions that could escalate the situation. Aggressive drivers often see interaction as a challenge, which can lead to road rage. Once they pass, don’t follow or confront them. Focus on staying safe and creating distance.

If an aggressive driver causes a crash and injures you, our Baton Rouge car accident attorneys can help you protect your rights.

When Tailgating Becomes Dangerous

Some tailgating incidents cross the line into threatening or criminal behavior. Treat the situation seriously if a driver:

  • Tries to bump or ram your vehicle
  • Follows you after you’ve changed lanes or turned onto another street
  • Appears to be intoxicated

In these situations, your safety is the priority. Head to a public, well-lit area with good visibility, like a gas station or busy shopping center. Avoid isolated areas. Once you’re safe, call 911 and report the behavior with as much detail about the driver, their vehicle, and their actions as possible.

Legal Support After a Tailgating Accident

A rear-end collision caused by tailgating can leave you dealing with painful injuries, missed work, and growing medical expenses. If another driver followed too closely and crashed into you, you may be entitled to compensation, but handling insurance claims and proving fault isn’t easy on your own.

At Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers, our Baton Rouge car accident attorneys know what it takes to build a strong case. We help clients by doing the following:

  • Reviewing crash reports, available video footage, and witness statements to establish fault
  • Working with doctors to link your injuries directly to the collision
  • Managing communication with insurance companies and pushing back on low offers
  • Calculating the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost income, and long-term impact

We handle the legal legwork so you can focus on healing.

Speak With a Baton Rouge Car Accident Lawyer Today

Getting rear-ended by a tailgater can leave lasting consequences on your health, finances, and daily life. At Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers, we’ve successfully handled countless rear-end accident claims across Louisiana. We know how to prove fault, deal with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact us for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and stand by your side throughout the claims process. You focus on recovery, and we’ll handle the rest.

Disclaimer: This content has been reviewed by Chad Lederman, Director of Legal Operations at our New Orleans office.