Driving can be nerve-wracking for many, and indeed, some do it purely for necessity rather than enjoyment. Sadly, as a nation, the pandemic rocked our driving confidence levels, with research from the AA in 2021 discovering that 78% of drivers felt anxious driving in the preceding year – 7% cut down and 1% and stopped driving as a result.
That said, a survey on the same topic from Fluxposure in 2020 found that more than half of drivers missed or seriously missed driving during the pandemic. So, with the world back on track, let’s build our confidence back up and get back to the roads. Here’s how!
Make sure your vehicle is up to scratch
You’re more likely to feel confident driving if you’re driving a trustworthy car you know is going to perform well on the road.
Getting a new car which is reliable is a good way of becoming more comfortable in the driving seat, and a personal car loan can be a possible way of getting the funds together for one as long as you’re certain you can afford the repayments. Failing that, get your current car serviced and deal with any niggling minor issues that might have shown up on your last MOT.
Avoid busy roads (at first)
Driving in more built-up areas before you’re ready is a sure-fire way to knock your confidence. Instead, take the time to drive around quiet areas and slowly but surely get more used to driving in busier areas. This could be your local estate or town, or to a friend or family member’s house that you visit often. After a few trips, start branching out to less frequented but still known areas, before taking on directions to places you haven’t visited before.
Use maps or a satnav
If you’re not a fan of paper or spoken directions, its best to make sure you’re prepared for your journey beforehand by typing your destination into Google Maps or a satellite navigation system to help you feel more confident. Using one of these tools will keep you on track and put your mind at ease, and helpful alerts regarding traffic and speed cameras will give you that extra bit of information to face any fears you might have.
Bring along a friend
Having some company along for the ride can be a good way to allay driving nerves. Make sure it’s someone you know well who won’t get stressed or angry if you drive slower or less confidently than normal. That way, you can both work through your anxieties slowly and carefully.
Getting back behind the wheel isn’t easy, but with the tips above, you can build your confidence and become the pro you were pre-pandemic.
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