Brake Checking a Police Officer: A Wise or Unwise Decision?
How wise or unwise is it to brake check a police officer? The decision one makes can have significant repercussions, from a harmless warning to a citation or even an arrest. Understanding the risks and consequences is crucial for everyone on the road, especially when law enforcement is involved.
Why It’s Unwise to Brake Check a Police Officer
The act of brake checking a police officer is exceptionally unwise. Simply changing lanes and allowing the officer to pass is the most sensible course of action. If the officer continues to tailgate you, pull over to a nearby parking lot or along the shoulder of the road. If they get out to see why, calmly explain that you were concerned about the proximity to your rear bumper and the risk of an accident. If they become sarcastic or belligerent, get their license plate number and file a complaint concerning unsafe driving with their department.
Understanding Tailed-Gating Behavior
People who tailgate are sending a specific message—typically, that you are driving too slowly or that they are in a hurry. You might think that you can persuade them to change their behavior by talking to them, but unfortunately, this often does not work. They may only learn the importance of emergency braking when they are involved in a serious rear-end collision. Brake checking is a pointless action because it will not cause a change in their behavior or mindset.
Moreover, tailgating drivers may misinterpret your brake lights in a split second. If they think you braked suddenly due to a minor change in pedal pressure, they may not be aware that you were just maintaining a safe distance. This misunderstanding could lead to an accident if they then rear-end you and you have already braked hard. Gradually lowering your speed by easing your foot off the accelerator a bit might be a better solution to get them off your tail.
The Risks of Brake Checking a Police Officer
Brake checking a police officer can have serious consequences. The officer might interpret your actions as an attempt to cause an accident and cite or arrest you for reckless behavior. If the police are following you too closely, the best course of action is to change lanes or pull over and get out of their way. Leave the responsibility of behavior modification to the police officers who are trained to handle such situations.
Clear Communication and Engagement
However, there are alternative methods of communicating your feelings to police officers. A quick triple tap on the brakes can serve as a warning to a tailgating officer about the importance of remaining alert and attentive on the road. This technique sets a good example and encourages compliance with traffic laws.
Understand that police officers are often working long hours, especially in critical positions. They may be tired, hungry, and under stress. Show your concern and kindness by offering a cup of coffee or a donut to the officer. Once their attention is caught, they might appreciate the gesture and be more attentive to your brakelights. While your aim may not be perfect, the intention behind the gift is what matters, and police officers are well-trained to understand this.
Remember to not just criticize but also engage in a friendly manner. Offer them a small token of appreciation, such as a donut or a coffee, to show your goodwill. This could lead to a friendly interaction rather than an aggressive confrontation.
By following this advice, you might even receive a friendly gesture in return, such as a thank you or a request for information to be submitted for Good Citizenship/Community Police Cooperation awards. Approach the officer with confidence when they approach you, as you are not getting a ticket but rather meeting a new friend.
Whether you decide to brake check or engage in a friendly gesture, always prioritize safety and mutual respect on the road.