Is it normal to be nervous about driving a new car?

Whilst some newly qualified drivers can’t wait to hit the road solo, for others even short, simple journeys can cause huge distress. Firstly, we want you to know you’re not alone, and being nervous behind the wheel is completely normal.

How do I get over my fear of driving a new car?

Scared of Driving? 7 Tips That Can Help!

1. Hire a Driving Instructor.
2. Take One Step at a Time With Exposure Therapy.
3. Try Simple Meditation.
4. Use Positive Affirmations to Get You Through Crisis Moments.
5. Consider Hypnosis as a Potential Anxiety Buster.
6. Just Go Do it Until it Feels Okay.

How do you get used to driving a new car?

How to get used to a new car

1. Walk around the car so you can gauge its size compared to other cars you’ve driven.
2. Take some time to check where all your controls are: fog lights, demister, high beams and so on.
3. Adjust your seat, mirrors and headrest so everything feels comfortable.

How can I be confident with a new car?

How to Be A Confident Driver: New Drivers

1. Start by practicing in an empty lot.
2. Move up to uncrowded roads.
3. Practice with another driver.
4. Have a planned route.
5. Be patient with yourself.
6. Practice driving on different types of roads.
7. Drive in different weather conditions.
8. Drive different vehicles.

How can I overcome highway driving anxiety?

There are several effective treatment options that are widely available, including:

1. Exposure Therapy – The primary fear with freeways is becoming trapped with no way out and no way to get help.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – CBT helps you identify distortions in your thinking about freeway driving.

What causes fear of highway driving?

Freeway phobia is really a manifestation of agoraphobia. Exposure therapy means just what it sounds like it means. With the help of a therapist, you gradually increase your time on the freeway, exposing yourself to your fears until they subside.

What to do if you have car anxiety while driving?

Driving Anxiety Tips. Do that for longer periods of time until you can sit in the car, engine running, without anxiety. When you reach that point, and it may take a few hours or a few days, then drive around the block. If you feel anxiety, just pull over until it goes away, then continue driving.

How can I stop being scared to drive my car?

For example, if you can’t even drive your car, then you might start by sitting in the parked car in the driveway or on the street with the engine on but not moving. Notice whatever anxiety comes up and just be with it. Do that for longer periods of time until you can sit in the car, engine running, without anxiety.

How can I avoid a car accident while driving?

Pay attention to how you feel after eating certain foods, especially those high in sugar or simple carbs (bread, pastries, soft drinks). Drinking alcohol the night before can also trigger blood sugar imbalances. Also, if you are driving while sleep deprived, you are asking for trouble. Start by taking care of yourself.

How to deal with seniors who don’t want to drive?

Alzheimer’s or dementia can cause seniors to become irrational and stubborn about driving. In these situations, an effective strategy is to remove the car and any reminders of driving. At the same time, creatively distract them from the topic until they forget about driving altogether.