MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) Rider's Course Practice Test

How should you respond to a tailgating driver for safety?

1. Brake suddenly to scare the driver

2. Wave them to pass quickly

3. Stay in the same lane

4. Increase your safety margin ahead

The correct answer is: Increase your safety margin ahead

Increasing your safety margin ahead is the most effective way to respond to a tailgating driver. By doing this, you create additional space between your motorcycle and the vehicle in front of you, which can help reduce the risk of accidents. This distance gives you more time to react to any sudden stops or emergencies that may occur in front of you, while also allowing the tailgating driver more room to navigate around you if necessary. Maintaining a safe following distance can also help you feel more secure on the road and keep you focused on your own riding without the added pressure of a driver closely following you. By prioritizing your safety and maintaining awareness of your surroundings, you contribute to a safer riding experience. The other choices could lead to dangerous situations. For instance, braking suddenly could provoke an increased risk of a rear-end collision, and waving the tailgater to pass might not maintain safety for you. Staying in the same lane without addressing the tailgater’s presence does not alleviate the risk, especially if that driver is driving aggressively.