Overcoming Driving Anxiety: 4 Tips for the Nervous Driver
Do you feel nervous behind the wheels? Luckily, you are not alone. For many drivers, driving a car can cause a great deal of worry and stress. Even short and simple journeys can put up challenges. Nervous could be due to many reasons like getting involved in an accident, limited experience or any other. However, there are plenty of ways you can overcome your anxiety and remain calm while on the road. Here are five useful tips for the nervous driver.
· Re-Learn the Basics
If you have not driven in a while or you have had a near miss that made you question your driving ability, it can help to go back and practice some basic techniques. Re-learning basic driving skills can help to refresh your memory. With more practice, you will start to feel more comfortable.
You can choose to practice with a professional instructor or alone. Focus on the aspects of driving that make you feel nervous.
· Prepare Your Vehicle
Before hitting the road, it is worth giving your car a quick check to make sure everything is in working order and put your mind at ease. You can check your tires, lights, windscreen wipers, fluids levels, etc. You can look at your owner’s manual or seek help from a professional.
It can also help if you clean your car from any clutter or debris. Dirty windscreens, dashboards, and mirrors can be distracting when you are driving. By doing some quick checks, you will have added peace of mind that is safe and roadworthy.
· Plan Your Journey
Planning your journey before you leave can help you avoid unexpected situations. If you are feeling nervous it is a good idea to choose routes that you are familiar with and that are less challenging. Mapping out your journey can also help to ensure that you have plenty of time to arrive at your destination and drive at a safe speed without the worry of being delayed.
· Practice Good Driving Habits
It is also important to practice some good driving habits at all times. It seems like you have probably forgotten some of the techniques you learned some times ago and picked up some bad habits along the way. Some of these behaviors could be causing driving anxiety without you even realizing it.
Always check your blind spots and mirrors, and drive within the speed limit. Practicing good driving habits can help you to remain calm and in control of your vehicle, which in turn will make you feel more at ease.
