If you’ve ever been involved in a car accident, getting behind the wheel again may be the furthest thing from your mind. Whether you caused the accident or were the victim of a crash, it is perfectly normal to experience some anxiety about driving again. For those who experience driving anxiety, just sitting in the driver’s seat can cause numerous unpleasant symptoms, such as sweating, elevated heartbeat, or even a full-blown panic attack. Driving anxiety can be very disruptive to your day-to-day life, particularly if you have to drive every day to work or if you need to drive your family around.
Fortunately, there are some ways for you to overcome driving anxiety. AODD’s Online Traffic School, a reliable provider of traffic safety training in San Juan Capistrano CA, offers the following tips that may help you reclaim your confidence in driving:
- Talk to a professional therapist
Being involved in a car accident, no matter how minor it may seem, can be a very traumatic experience. If you are really struggling to overcome your driving anxiety, please know that there is no shame in seeking professional help. A therapist may be able to help you identify and work through some of the fears that prevent you from driving again. If required, they may be able to prescribe medications that can make your anxiety more manageable. No matter the severity of the accident that caused the driving anxiety, talking to a professional therapist is a wise first step.
- Start as a passenger
The fact that you are in control of a powerful vehicle may be one of the most anxiety-inducing aspects of driving. You are responsible, not only for yourself and your passengers but also for the safety and welfare of other road users as well. To help ease some of your driving anxiety, start as a passenger – this can help you get used to being in a vehicle again without the added pressure of driving. Ask a trusted family member or friend to take you on a drive.
- Start with short drives
If you’re ready to drive solo again, start slow. Start with short drives in a quiet place where you feel most comfortable. Some people even choose an empty parking lot, just to readjust to the experience of driving again. Not quite ready to go on a solo drive yet? Ask a family member or friend to ride along with you. Only after you feel at ease driving in an area with minimal traffic should you drive again along highways and busy areas.
- Enroll in a defensive driving course
Our driving instructors do so much more than just provide you with the general skills required to drive. They may also be able to help you overcome your driving fears. Our driving instructors can also help you sharpen your driving skills, giving you more confidence behind the wheel.
These are just some tips from your friendly Safe Driving School in CA. Stay safe on the road!
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