Driving can be stressful, so it’s no surprise that anxiety is a widespread problem that new and experienced drivers alike experience. Driving school will teach you the basics you need for defensive and safe driving, but you’ll need to take some steps on your own to reduce your anxiety. The driving instructors at Sure-Drive Driver’s Training Inc. in Edgewood, KY, share some information about anxiety behind the wheel to help you get started.

A Driving School’s Guide to Anxiety-Free Driving

Why You Feel Anxious

The two most common causes of anxiety while driving are dangerous situations and panic attacks. Being in an accident, narrowly avoiding a collision, or seeing a bad crash on the side of the freeway can all contribute to growing fear of potentially dangerous situations. On the other hand, if you get a panic attack while driving, it can take control of your entire body and put your life at risk. And when you’re so afraid to get into a car in case of a panic attack, you may end up inducing another.

How to Relieve It

If your anxiety prevents you from getting behind the wheel, the solution is to force yourself to drive. Start in a safe area like an empty parking lot and practice driving. You may even find that you get bored after a while. Once you feel comfortable, try driving down quiet streets with low speed limits, then work your way up to normal roads. If you need to, perform some relaxation techniques while you drive. Breathe slowly and deeply, in and out, as hyperventilation can worsen panic attacks.

Starting with the right tools in driving school will help you feel more confident behind the wheel. Sure-Drive Driver’s Training Inc. provides expert instruction with an introductory section, written materials, and hands-on driving lessons. Their training cars allow supervisors to take over in case the student makes a mistake for maximum safety. Call (859) 331-0007 to schedule your driver’s education course. Visit them online to learn more about their driving lessons.