Helping Nervous or Inexperienced Drivers Gain Confidence Behind the Wheel
GUEST POST.
Image Photo by Chris Barnard on Unsplash
It’s easy to be nervous when you’re driving. Whenever you take to the road, you are responsible for safely piloting several tons of metal from one place to the next – and getting things wrong can lead to serious injury (or, more often, embarrassment).
If you’re going to enjoy a good driving career, though, it’s essential that you don’t allow your nerves to get the better of you. But how might you tackle them?
Understand What’s Causing Your Nerves
Different drivers become nervous for different reasons – or for different combinations of reasons. You’ll want to pinpoint precisely what triggers your anxiety. It might be that you start to get worried only during rush hour, when you feel pressured by the vehicles around you. It might be that the feelings arise when you’re in an unfamiliar country lane, and you don’t understand exactly where you’re going.
It’s important to remember how common nervousness and even fear are among drivers. With experience, many are able to overcome their nerves – provided that they stick with it.
Build Skills Through Gradual, Structured Practice
If you aren’t used to the feeling of driving, then it’s only natural that you’ll feel nervous. Try to build up your personal mileage on easy, low-stress parts of the road system. This might mean quiet suburbs with which you’re familiar, at quiet times of the day. Sunday morning is ideal. Then as you grow more confient go further afield and try more challenging roads.
Aim to have had a good night's sleep beforehand and avoid stimulants such as caffeine as these could add to your feelings of nervousness. Plan your route before you head out so you know which turnings you want to take and what types of roads and junctions you are going to encounter.
Removing any distractions – such as switching off your phone or putting it on silent – wil help you focus on what you are doing.
If you are aiming to be at a particular destination at a set time, leave in plenty of time so you are not rushing to get to your destination – which will only add to your stress levels.
A good instructor might also be able to provide you with guidance, even if you’ve already passed the test. Knowing what to practice and focus on can help you overcome your nerves that much quicker. If you have a calm friend or family member, consider taking them out on your trips so they can offer encouragement.
If the thought of heading out onto motorways is adding to your stress, you can always sign up for lessons specifically for focussing on this, whether you are still a learner or already have a license. Your instructor can help you with understanding joining and exiting the motorway as well as lane discipline and safe distancing.
Use In-Car Aids and Good Driving Habits to Feel More in Control
Many modern vehicles come equipped with special gadgets and equipment that take the stress out of driving. You’ll want to familiarise yourself with whatever tools are available to you. If you’re not comfortable with reverse parking, then having the right sensor at the rear might make the experience far less nerve-wracking. A rear-view camera might also be hugely helpful.
It’s also worth thinking about the driving habits that have already become second nature. If you have to constantly think about the actual mechanics of finding the right gear, or depressing the clutch, then your attention will be fragmented. Keep practising until it’s all second nature.
You may also want to consider putting a P plate on your car, if you would feel better letting other drivers know you are new to driving.
Manage Stress and Build Long-Term Confidence
Stress can be a problem both in the short term and the long term. Short-term stress can be managed through things like preparation, breathing exercises and simply maintaining a sense of perspective. In the long term, you’ll deal with driving stress by addressing the sources. Keep practising, celebrate those minor victories and you’ll eventually win out.
This is a guest post and therefore these are not necessarily the views of Index Digital.
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