How to overcome driving anxiety

28 October 2021

Anyone can experience driving anxiety - whether you’ve been driving for the past twenty years, or you passed your test yesterday. Being nervous about getting in the driving seat is not something to be ashamed of. It can however, be very tricky to deal with. We have compiled a list of useful tips that should help put your mind at ease when you’re behind the wheel.

What causes driving anxiety?

What causes driving anxiety is unique to each person – however, there are some common reasons:

• New drivers are often more wary when it comes to the roads – a lack of experience and fear of the unknown can cause apprehension.
• Driving in the dark is often a source of driving anxiety – many drivers find driving in the dark an altogether different experience, especially when they are in unfamiliar areas.
• Driving after being involved in an accident can be scary – for many people, getting in the car prompts feelings of fear associated with the accident.
• Long distances can cause fear in some drivers – people worry that something will happen (for example, a breakdown) and they won’t be able to get help.
• Driving on your own when you’re used to driving with someone else can be intimidating. This is particularly the case with drivers who have recently passed their test, who are used to driving with someone more experienced with them.

6 tips on how to combat driving anxiety

1. Self-care

Get yourself ready for a car journey before you even get in the car – if you need to, focus on your breathing or listen to music to stay calm. We recommend avoiding caffeine before a drive, especially if you’re a nervous driver, as it often triggers anxiety.

2. Prepare your car

A major source of anxiety comes from the idea of breaking down in the middle of a journey. One way to set your mind at ease is to have your car regularly serviced. A car service is almost like a check up at the doctors – our technicians assess a number of car components such as brakes, oil, steering and more.

Find out more about what is included in a car service.

3. Use a satnav

Anxiety about getting lost or showing up late is very common. Nowadays, there’s an easy solution – the satnav! All you need is a phone cradle and an app – simply type your destination in and the app will point you in the right direction. Be sure to set everything up before driving off, as mobile phone use is while driving is illegal!

Alternatively, most modern cars are designed with a built in sat-nav which can help you get from A to B. Hopefully hearing and seeing clear directions on your journey should offer peace of mind. A satnav also provides some company in the car if you are apprehensive about driving alone.

4. Clean your car

In the same way that a clean desk or a clean study can improve your focus, a clean car can help you feel less stressed on the road. If you leave junk like old scraps of paper and flimsy shopping bags in your car, why not take a bin bag and clear your car of all rubbish? You’ll feel much better for it!

5. Drive in familiar areas

If fear of the unknown is fuelling your nerves, you may find it easier to stick to routes you know. Build your confidence by travelling on familiar roads – the more driving you do on them, the less daunting they will seem. Once you feel more confident, you can start branching out and taking other routes to familiar places.

This might be a luxury, particularly if you travel for work, but try to follow well known routes like travelling to the same supermarket every day.

6. Don’t beat yourself up!

Anxiety is often perpetuated by a feeling of guilt or stress. If you do make a mistake or get lost, try to remember that everyone makes mistakes on the road, and be kind to yourself!

If you find that you’re still struggling with driving anxiety it might be worth seeing your GP. There are a number of medical techniques, such as stress management, which may be able to calm your nerves. Alternatively, you can get in touch with a member of our helpful team or visit us at your local Setyres branch today for answers to your motoring queries.