It’s a well-known fact that driving can be a rather stressful experience even for the most experienced drivers. However, if you’re looking to take control of your commute and have some peace of mind knowing where you’ll be going, here are 7 tips for anyone who is looking to get over the fear of driving alone!
1. Take A Driving Class
If you’re still not confident enough about getting behind the wheel, then consider taking a driving class with one of your friends who already has some experience! This will allow both of you to get used to handling the vehicle while having another set of eyes on the brakes and steering wheel to help keep you safe. If you don’t have a driving partner, look for a professional here. Then, try to find the time to drive on your own more often. You will soon begin to get used to it and you’ll start to feel safer while doing it!
Do not be afraid of honking your horn or letting off the brake if something goes wrong. As long as you are safe, there is nothing wrong with resorting to some loud noises or abrupt movements when necessary. You don’t want another vehicle behind you running into you, do you? If this still does not ease your mind, then try driving around a neighborhood close by that has low traffic and very few vehicles at all times during the day. This might help make things less hectic for yourself and allow you time to really take in what
2. Get An Automated GPS System
If you’re not great at navigating, one of the best ways to get over the fear of driving alone is by getting an automated GPS installed in your car! These systems are super easy to use and will always help guide you where you need to go, no matter what time it is or how isolated your location is. Not only that, the more you use the system, the easier it will be for you to navigate around!
3. Maintain Your Vehicle
If you’re not confident about being able to drive somewhere without making a mistake or getting lost, then you shouldn’t do it at all! Nobody wants to end up stranded in the middle of nowhere with no way of escaping, right? To help prevent such accidents from happening as well as maintain full control over your vehicle and know exactly how long it’ll take you to arrive at your destination, make sure to keep track of any issues with your car and get them fixed as soon as possible. Keeping an eye on small details like oil and water levels can also help you keep your car in working order.
4. Know Your Car’s Distance Per Hour
Most new drivers don’t really know how to calculate their car’s speed, which is why it makes them so uneasy! To help prevent this issue from happening, make sure that you memorize the different speeds that your car can reach when driving at any given moment. You can also use an online calculator or ask a friend for assistance out on the road if ever needed.
5. Stay In Shape
Driving is a very demanding activity that takes a lot of energy from your body! This factor can play a big role in making you feel uneasy about driving alone, so be sure to set up some sort of workout schedule to stay in shape before taking your car out for a spin! It’s also recommended that you try eating healthier so you have more fuel when driving long distances.
6. Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Being Serviced Regularly
No matter how well-maintained your car may seem, there are always issues that can easily slip by without anyone noticing until it’s too late! To prevent any accidents from happening as well as to ensure that your car will always be ready to take you where you need to go, make sure that you’re servicing it regularly!
7. Use A Route Finder If Needed
Last but not least, if all else fails and you just feel extremely uncomfortable driving alone even after getting an automated GPS or attending a driving class, then there’s no shame in using route finder apps like Toggle Maps to help guide you through areas where you don’t usually go. While these services can be expensive depending on how frequently you use them, they are definitely worth the money if it means having peace of mind when driving around.
Although driving alone may come with its fair share of risks, as long as you stay safe and confident whenever taking the driver’s seat, you should have no fear about getting behind the wheel!
