Inevitable aspects of driving can be stressful, and aggressive driving behaviors like brake checking and tailgating only make things worse. Let's break down what these actions are, why they're dangerous, and how to handle them safely.

Brake Checking: A Recipe for Rear-End Collisions

Brake checking, also known as "brake testing," happens when a driver deliberately slams on their brakes in front of another vehicle. This can have several motivations, ranging from retaliation for tailgating to road rage.

Why It's Illegal and Dangerous

Brake checking is explicitly against the law in California. According to Vehicle Code Section 22109, you must signal before stopping or suddenly slowing down. Brake checking violates this rule and can lead to serious rear-end accidents.

What to Do if Someone Brake Checks You

1. Don't Retaliate: The worst thing you can do is brake check back. It escalates the situation and increases the risk of a collision.
2. Increase Following Distance: Immediately create more space between your car and the one in front. This gives you more time to react.
3. Switch Lanes (If Possible): If it's safe, move to another lane to put distance between you and the aggressive driver.
4. Report the Incident: If you can safely get the license plate number, report the brake checking to law enforcement.

Tailgating: The Three-Second Rule

Tailgating, or following too closely, is a widespread problem. It significantly reduces your reaction time if the car ahead stops suddenly.

The CA DMV's Guidance

The California DMV recommends the "three-second rule" to maintain a safe following distance:

1. Choose a fixed object on the road ahead (a sign, tree, etc.).
2. When the vehicle ahead passes the object, start counting: "One-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three."
3. If you reach the object before you finish counting, you're following too closely.
4. 

How to Handle a Tailgater

1. Don't Brake Check: As tempting as it may be, brake checking only worsens the situation.
2. Maintain Your Speed: Don't speed up to try to "lose" the tailgater.
3. Signal and Move Over: When it's safe, change lanes to let the tailgater pass.
4. If Necessary, Slow Down Gradually: Reducing your speed can encourage the tailgater to go around you.

Sharing the Road Responsibly

Everyone has a role to play in keeping our roads safe. By avoiding aggressive behaviors like brake checking and tailgating, and responding to them in a calm and collected manner, we can all contribute to a less stressful driving environment.

Let's be courteous, respectful, and focused on safety while behind the wheel.