San Antonio drivers deal with construction zones almost every day. Ongoing work on I-35, Loop 410, Loop 1604, and surface streets like Bandera Road and Wurzbach Parkway means new teen drivers regularly face barrels, lane shifts, reduced speeds, and workers near the roadway.

According to TxDOT, work zones have higher crash rates, especially when drivers are impatient, distracted, or unsure how to navigate changing conditions. For new drivers, these situations can feel overwhelming and dangerous.

Here are practical strategies every San Antonio teen should know when driving through construction zones:

1. Slow down as soon as you see warning signs Don’t wait until you’re right on top of the barrels. Reduce your speed early and stay alert for changing conditions.

2. Stay in your lane and follow the barrels Avoid last-minute lane changes. Stick to the marked path and resist the urge to squeeze into gaps.

3. Double your following distance Give yourself extra time and space around workers, equipment, and uneven pavement.

4. Pay close attention to flaggers and temporary signals Never assume you have the right of way. Follow directions from flaggers and obey temporary traffic lights.

5. Avoid rubbernecking Keep your eyes on the road ahead. Staring at work activity is a common cause of rear-end collisions in construction zones.

6. Merge early and be courteous When lanes are closing, move over early instead of forcing your way in at the last second.

7. Stay patient and calm Construction delays are temporary. Rushing or getting frustrated increases risk for everyone on the road.

Professional training at Rhodes Driving Schools gives teens real experience navigating San Antonio construction zones with an instructor by their side. This hands-on practice builds the confidence and decision-making skills that classroom learning alone can’t provide.

Help your teen stay safe in one of the most challenging driving environments in Texas.

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