What is wrong with people?

Why do people tailgate? Most of my experience with tailgaters is that they are in a hurry and want you to go faster as a result. So they tailgate you to try to get you to go faster. Or, they hope you’ll get so frustrated you move out of their way (hard to do on two lane roads).

This methodology doesn't work, especially with someone like me. I usually drive at or just above the speed limit (within 5 mph). For some reason certain drivers think it's my duty to go faster (or get out of the way) when they want to go faster. I'm sorry, that is not my problem and I’m not going to enable reckless driving. No matter how many times you beat on your dash, shake your finger or make obscene gestures, I’m not going to accommodate you – I’m not threatened by your wild antics.

Riding my tailgate only makes me want to go slower and randomly tap my brakes. If someone is discourteous enough to put my welfare in danger by tailgating me, then I have no problem pissing them off even more. I never have a problem with people going slower than me, unless they are driving GROSSLY UNDER the speed limit, which I never do. However, when someone is driving at, or above, the speed limit they are not obligated to do anything for someone who desires to go faster.

I had someone tailgating me somewhat this morning on the way to work. It got me thinking….what can I do about it? Ultimately, I don’t think there is anything I can do about it. I could call the police and report the incident, but by the time they show up the person is long gone. I could try stopping my car in the middle of the road and impeding their travel until the police arrive, but then I’m likely to get the ticket for impeding traffic. How do you combat tailgating legally? How do you combat illegal behavior with legal behavior? Since I have no authority, I can’t – plain and simple. That really sucks when you think about it. I have no recourse.

I find myself wishing a squirrel would jump out in the road so I can slam on my brakes legitimately and make them rear-end me. I find myself hoping they end up in a ditch somewhere – not hurt, just their vehicle damaged and stuck. I find myself wishing I worked from home so I wouldn’t have to deal with these people as much. Why are people in such a hurry? Even when I’m in a hurry, I’m never in THAT MUCH of a hurry. Can’t people consider the safety and welfare of others? Inconsiderate!