Driving lessons for anxious drivers
Did you know that driving a car
is one of the riskiest things a human can do? In the year 2021 an accurate
figure of 1,123 car crash deaths were reported in Australia by
www.bitre.gov.au. More shocking than that is the fact, this figure
comes as an increase of 2.6% in car crashes compared to the previous year. In
another article published by www.anxietyaustralia.com.au, a survey
carried out in 2014 discovered that over 79% Australians out of a
thousand, had fears about driving. This has resulted in some age groups not
willing to take up any form of driving. And finally, meeting with a motor car
accident is among the second most feared things in Australia. However dire this
may seem, there is a silver lining behind the fear factor. And it comes in the
form of proper driver training. Lets look at this later on, but for now, the
most important factor is getting over the fears and anxiety. This is a line every
learner driver must learn to cross.
What
can we do to overcome our fears?
If you’re feeling nervous about
getting behind the wheel, have you actually thought about why you feel that
way? Lets explore some of the more often reasons that people feel anxious.
·
A
recent accident: This could be the number one reason why many drivers are
anxious or nervous when they are behind the wheel. Encountering an accident
causes indelible stress and memories that make a person feel nervous when they
are behind the wheel again. While some accidents can be amount to a slight
‘fender bender’ incident, others might of a more drastic nature where
even fatalities occur. However minor or horrendous the accident may have been,
the follow up sentiments relating to the crash might affect the driver on
different levels. It is reported that 22% of people who had encountered a
car crash experienced way more worry and stress as well as a drop in
confidence after a collision. Women in particular who had a car crash
were more susceptible than their male counterparts who had faced a similar
incident.
·
Inexperienced
even after passing the driving test: Maybe you’ve just passed your driving test
with flying colors and you’re ready to hit the road on your own. The day comes
when you belt yourself in and you throw the car into gear and start moving. But
then it hits you…you freeze! This set of symptoms affects thousands of new
drivers every year around the globe. Many new drivers face this situation
during their first drive after qualifying. It is in most instances related to
the lack of confidence to drive the vehicle alone.
·
Criticism:
If you’re in the company of others while driving, and someone among them begins
to share their thoughts on driving and even worse, criticize the way you’re driving,
then that’s not be the best person to be sharing car space with. Being
critical of a new driver is not only distracting, but also causes mental
distress that can lead to meeting with an accident or simply cause undue
stress and lasting negativity. Although not spoken about much, this comes as an
unpleasant and undeniable reality in some cases of anxiety.
·
Aging:
As we age, our reflexes, eye sight and hearing may be slightly or profoundly
impaired. This may cause anxiety to set in. Being unsure about ones physical
capabilities can be unnerving and certainly affect the way a person drives.
·
Other
physical conditions: Disabilities or differently abled persons may also be
prone to anxieties when it comes to driving. Based on their history of physical
or mental capabilities, independent observation and regular follow-up should be
monitored. Recommendations by a physician will provide insight to the disabled
persons ability to cope with driving.
Overcoming
anxiousness
How do we overcome anxiousness
when driving? The number one key to this question, is ‘starting early’ and ‘start learning with the right instructor’. As
we get older, our adaptability wears down. Starting to learn driving at an
early age can really instill the confidence a student needs to have. As a
beginner, pick the right instructor for the job. There are many driving lesson
schools out there, but do your research, search the internet for the best
reviews and customer testimonials which will provide superb insight as well as
give you the perspective of other learner drivers too. Picking the right
instructor is critical in creating a confidence enriched attitude for driving.
Over crowded roads and too many
traffic lights in city traffic causes much of the already anxious to be even
more excited. Instead try to use less populated roads, such as outlining ones.
They might be a little longer of a route, but yet will save you the stress of
driving. Try relaxing exercises. Forms of meditation, relaxing music and even
having a warm beverage before driving could calm your nerves. Plan your journey
ahead. Early planning and looking at a map before driving will give you the
confidence to arrive at your destination without worry. Keep away from
distractions. This is very important, especially for new drivers. Keep your
phone on silent or better still, switch it off till you complete your trip. A
ringing phone or message notification can distract and make you lose
concentration. Another form of distraction can be overly vocal passengers. If
you’ve got ‘loud’ passengers, tell them politely that you would like to
concentrate on your driving and a little quietness would be appreciated. On the
contrary a relaxing chat might even help, but not loud, noisy distracting talk.
If you’re a person with disabilities or differently abled, a notification on
the outside of the car to let others know, would be a good way to notify other
drivers who are unaware of a differently abled person is at the wheel and may
try to horn and make it difficult for you on the road.
Obnoxious drivers who aren’t
courteous might cut in or swerve intentionally if they are not notified of a
person who is just getting used to their vehicle. These are some tips that will
help nervous drivers overcome their anxiety and fear. Hope these will help you
to start driving better and more relaxed. Wish you all the best and a fun drive
to arrive at your destination safely.
These are some tips that will
help nervous drivers overcome their anxiety and fear. Hope these will help you
to start driving better and more relaxed. Wish you all the best and a fun drive
to arrive at your destination safely.
Conclusion
It is evident that stress and
anxiety can and will be a part of the driving experience. How it affects people
is debatable on many levels, even if evaluated professionally. Dr Joanne Taylor
in her post on www.smh.com.au says
‘driving anxiety is very treatable but many people would not seek help because
of shame’. This is a fact that stays true to this day. Remember anxiety is
treatable and can be easily overcome, if the person concerned takes the
appropriate steps to correct it.
At DOS Driving School, we
understand that learning to drive can be intimidating, especially for anxious
drivers. Our patient and supportive instructors are dedicated to creating a
calm, stress-free environment to help you build confidence behind the wheel.
Whether you're a new driver or returning after a break, we'll work with you at
your own pace, ensuring you feel safe and comfortable throughout each lesson.
With personalized instruction and a focus on relaxation techniques, we'll help
you gain the skills and confidence you need to become a confident driver.
For more, contact DOS Driving
School.
Phone:
03 8738 5185
Mobile:
0490 049 705
We are open 7 days a week
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