Did you ever have that feeling that you were being followed? I’m sure almost everyone has at one point in their lives. Being followed, either by car or on foot, is a very scary experience. Questions begin to swirl in your head: Why me? What do they want? Is this really happening? Here, we’ll sort out between rational thinking and unnecessary panicking if you think you’re being followed, and what to do if you determine that you have a tail.
What to Do if You’re Being Followed
Everything Starts with Awareness
Being aware of your surroundings is not just a catchy mantra for personal safety; it is your first and best line of defense. In nature, predators hunt for the distracted, weak, or easy prey. Two-legged predators act just the same.
Having your eyes glued to your cellphone’s screen or both ears inundated with music from your earphones can distract you and make you a viable target. Additionally, struggling to carry a load of bags, your jacket, and an extra-large coffee drink doesn’t leave you time to scan your environment. You could be missing several red flags that you’re being eyed and ultimately followed.
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The easiest fix is to curb your use of electronics and lighten your load when you’re in a high-traffic, public place. Scan the area ahead and behind you as you walk, and walk with your head high, exuding confidence.
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Why You’re Being Tailed?
Most people who believe they’re being followed instantly run the worst-case scenarios in their minds. They think they will be robbed, abducted, or even killed. However, many times you may be followed for less serious reasons.
A private investigator may be researching an insurance claim or possible infidelity. A secret admirer may be following you on foot, waiting for the right moment to strike up a conversation. While driving, a car constantly trying to catch up to you may be trying to get your attention if a taillight is out or your gas tank door is open.
Although many times being followed is non-life-threatening, always keep your guard up until you determine the pursuer’s purpose.
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Testing Your Suspicions
If your logical mind and panicked mind are conflicting with each other, there are a few ways to know for sure if you are being tailed. When driving, make four right turns. No one would normally need to do this, so if your tail stays with you, it’s a good sign you’re being followed.
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Jump on and then off the highway, then back on. Are they still with you? If you change your daily route to work or school, do you see the same person on your new route? If you answer yes to some of these questions, odds are you are being followed. From this point onward, remain cautious and calm, and notify the authorities as soon as possible.
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Avoiding Your Home
Running or driving to the security of your own home or apartment is not a sound idea, by any means. Although you may want to lock yourself inside and temporarily feel safe, your pursuer will know exactly where you live. This will allow him or her to confront you at their leisure.
Instead, drive directly to the police or fire station. If your pursuers have malicious intent, they won’t come anywhere near either location. While there, explain your concerns and let them help you plan a logical course of action.
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Seek a Safe Location
Your “safe spot” will depend on how dangerous you feel you are. If you have doubts about whether the car behind you is following you, a public place may be the best option. Anywhere there’s a crowd of people is a great destination. These include an active strip mall, a street lined with bars and restaurants, or a crowded community park.
If the car behind you follows you at every turn and slows down when you do, then heading to a police station is the best decision. It’s also wise to call the police as you drive to the station and alert them of the situation. Make note of the car’s make, model, and color for future reference, if needed.
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Err on the Side of Caution
It’s never wrong to seek help and protection from the authorities if you sense that you are in danger. Although it may turn out to be nothing like you imagined, it’s better to err on the side of caution than to have done nothing. Also, report any suspicious people or activities around your neighborhood.
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Remember, don’t ever be afraid or embarrassed to voice your concerns. You may not only be protecting yourself from possible harm by alerting the police, but perhaps other future victims.
