If someone is tailgating you, what should you do?

Increasing your following distance is the best approach when someone is tailgating you. By doing this, you create a buffer zone that allows for more reaction time in case of sudden stops or emergencies. This extra space can help prevent a rear-end collision if the driver behind you fails to maintain a safe distance. Additionally, having a greater following distance provides you with the flexibility to slow down gradually, rather than braking suddenly, which could escalate the tailgating situation.

While decreasing your speed might seem like a reasonable option, it could exacerbate the tailgater's impatience and lead to a more dangerous situation if they don't react appropriately. Changing lanes immediately can be risky if the area is not clear or if there is no safe opportunity to do so. Ignoring the tailgater is not a proactive solution and can lead to an increased level of stress or a potential accident. Thus, increasing your following distance is the most effective and safest action to take in this scenario.