New York Driver License (DMV) Written Practice Test 2026 - Free DMV Practice Questions and Study Guide

When you are being followed too closely by another vehicle, changing lanes to allow the other driver to pass is the safest and most effective response. This action reduces the risk of a rear-end collision, which can occur if you need to brake suddenly while being tailgated. By allowing the aggressive driver to move ahead, you create a more comfortable driving situation for both parties.

The other options are generally not advisable: accelerating to get away can lead to reckless driving and unsafe speeds, braking suddenly can provoke the following driver and result in a crash, and driving slower to annoy them is unlikely to resolve the situation and could increase tension or lead to an accident. Therefore, safely allowing space and facilitating the passing of the tailgater is the preferred method.