Some people propose brake checking tailgaters. This just means slamming on your brakes unexpectedly. If someone else is driving too close to the back of your car, brake checking them is seen as a way to scare them into backing off because they almost get involved in an accident.
As common as this is, it’s not something you should ever do. For one thing, it could be seen as reckless driving and instigating an accident. The rear driver is typically at fault in a rear-end accident because it is their responsibility to maintain a proper following distance, but the front driver could also be liable if it turns out that they intentionally caused the crash.
What you should do instead
Rather than brake checking them, your best bet is to get them to pass you. Merge into a different lane. Pull into a parking lot or a driveway. Give them a chance to get around, keeping you and everyone in your vehicle safe.
Reducing your speed can help, but you don’t want to do it by slamming on the brakes. Instead, you can just gradually slow down. After all, many tailgaters are just getting close because they want to pass. If you’re traveling at a lower rate of speed, passing is easier because the rear driver can get around faster if there’s a break in oncoming traffic.
Seeking compensation
Unfortunately, even if you try to deal with tailgaters appropriately, they could cause an accident and you may be injured. If so, you need to know how to seek financial compensation for medical bills and more.