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Topic 4 · Section 26

Avoiding Road Rage

  • Don’t engage with angry drivers. If someone is aggressively honking or yelling, avoid eye contact and definitely don’t return gestures. A small apologetic wave (like “sorry”) can sometimes defuse tension if you made a mistake.

  • If you inadvertently upset someone (e.g., merged without realizing they were coming fast), and now they’re tailgating or trying to confront you, stay calm. Do not escalate. If their behavior becomes threatening, call 911 or drive to a public place or police station.

  • Manage your own mindset: Don’t take traffic personally. People make mistakes or are just in a rush — let it go. A calm and courteous driver is always a safer driver.

Check you have it

179 practice questions cover defensive driving and safe driving practices, each explaining the reasoning behind its answer.

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Source: California Driver's Handbook (DL 600, rev. 6/2025). Edited by Fernando Aguilera. Aprobify is not affiliated with the California DMV.

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