San Antonio traffic can test anyone’s patience. Aggressive drivers who tailgate, cut people off, honk excessively, or make dangerous maneuvers are unfortunately common on I-35, Loop 410, and many surface streets.

New teen drivers are especially vulnerable because they may react emotionally instead of strategically. Learning how to stay calm and avoid escalating situations is one of the most important defensive driving skills they can develop.

Here’s how to handle aggressive drivers safely:

1. Don’t engage Never make eye contact, gesture, or respond to aggressive drivers. Ignoring them is the safest choice.

2. Create space If someone is tailgating you, safely change lanes or slow down slightly to let them pass when it’s safe to do so.

3. Avoid retaliation Speeding up, brake-checking, or yelling back only escalates the situation and puts everyone at greater risk.

4. Use defensive positioning Stay out of the blind spots of large trucks and avoid driving alongside aggressive drivers when possible.

5. Don’t take it personally Remember that aggressive driving is usually about the other driver’s issues, not you. Let it go.

6. Take the high road Let aggressive drivers go ahead. Arriving 30 seconds later is always better than getting into a dangerous confrontation.

7. Know when to report If you witness truly reckless or dangerous behavior that puts others at risk, note the vehicle description and call 911 or TxDOT’s tip line when it’s safe to do so.

At Rhodes Driving Schools, instructors teach emotional control and advanced defensive driving techniques in real San Antonio traffic. This hands-on experience helps teens stay calm and make smart decisions even when other drivers are acting aggressively.

Staying calm is one of the most powerful skills a new driver can have.

Enroll your teen today at one of our four convenient San Antonio locations — Helotes, Ellison, Eckhert, or Culebra. Visit rhodesdrivingschools.com.