How to Overcome the Anxiety of Driving
Avoid Driving Alone
Sometimes people feel more confident when another person is with them in the vehicle. Having a family member or friend talk through fears or even offer support and encouragement can help relieve pent-up anxiety.
Think Positive
Your mindset is key when you are about to get behind the wheel. Giving yourself positive affirmations and thoughts can help keep fear and scary thoughts out of your mind. Instead of worrying about driving tomorrow, tell yourself you can do it!
Keep Driving Even, and Especially, After an Accident
If you have a poor experience behind the wheel, get back out there. Unless you are willing to resign yourself to alternative transportation forever, it’s very important to make sure that you have an up-to-date driver’s license and that you stay in practice.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Start by driving in an empty parking lot or on roads that have decreased amounts of traffic. The more you practice and continue to drive, start adding in more roadways and busier areas. Hopefully, you will start to cope with the anxiety, and driving will get easier.
Control Your Emotions
Not able to quiet your nerves? Don’t allow yourself to be distracted. Find different ways to calm yourself down when you are behind the wheel. Things such as some old-fashioned relaxation techniques could be key during an anxiety attack.
Seek Help
Overcoming driving anxiety can be extremely difficult to do by yourself. In extreme cases, the help of a medical professional is necessary. Mental health professionals will be able to provide a program that suits your needs.
The freedom granted by driving is a privilege and one that you should enjoy! Your confidence while driving is critical to the safety of everyone on the road.
Injured in a Car Accident?
The attorneys at Hupy and Abraham hope these tips for avoiding driving anxiety help when you are feeling anxious about being behind the wheel. But in the unfortunate event that you or someone you love is injured in a car accident, you should speak to an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. You can contact us online or call our office directly at 800-800-5678 to schedule your free consultation with one of our car accident lawyers.
