How do I overcome my fear of driving?

I haven't needed a car in three years, and my husband and I just moved back to Long Island and I got a brand new car...and I'm scared to drive. I mean like, its sitting in the garage and I am terrified to take it out. I should really be driving over to my parents house right now, but instead my mom is picking me up. How can I overcome this fear? This is so pathetic

Message edited 7/24/2007 7:15:07 PM.

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

I didn't learn to drive until I was 32ish. The only way I could conquer the fear was to take lessons. Do you work in the city? If so, I used Pro Driving School ; they were amazing! They would pick me up during my lunch hour at work and take me driving all over the place - even Chinatown. It was sink or swim and I learned a lot. I think taking lessons with someone very patient would be a great idea. GL!

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

I was the exact same way. I never had a need to drive, so I just never did. I've started realizing how much more convenient my life would be, and how easy it would be for others if I would just do it, though. I think the only way to overcome it is to just get in the car & go. I didn't want to, but DH made me drive all the way home from Riverhead a couple of weeks ago (he just appointed me designated driver, so I really had no choice), and I was fine.

When you're doing it, you'll see it's ok, and not as hard or as scary as you thought. And the more you do it, the less nervous you'll feel. Or, just go out for short drives every day, and each day go a little further than the day before. I also find that I'm a lot less nervous when I'm by myself than when others are with me. I'm less worried about what other people will think.

And I make DH get out and go inside before I made any attempt to parallel park.

Good luck, and know you're not the only one out there that feels like that!

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

I know how you feel - not the same situation but...

I was in a very bad car accident several yrs ago and was SO afraid to drive afterwards. the way I overcame it was just do it! you have to get back in the saddle and overcome your fears.

maybe you can start out by taking short trips to the grocery store at off hours when there aren't many ppl out.

good luck!!

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

FM

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

No advice just some and to say that I know how you feel. I got my drivers license last June and still don't drive.
I want to but I am just so afraid of hurting myself or others.

My DH is making me drive these two weeks while he is on vacation. I find that I am more nervous when he is in the car than. I drive better when I am alone in the car. I am driving short distances with less traffic and slowly working my way up to further places.

Message edited 7/24/2007 9:47:54 PM.

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

Sorry you are having such a hard time. Maybe try starting slow. First, just sit in the car and get used to the controls/mirrors etc. Then take it out for a brief trip around the block. Then when you feel more comfortable, start going on longer rides. Before you know it, it'll be a breeze. You can do it!

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

Due to medical reasons I was not allowed to drive for a year!
The first day they gave me the OK, I was shaking. I was so proud of myself for driving 4 blocks, yes, only 4..to 7-11 to get a bagel and juice for breakfast.

The key is : Take it slow!

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

I got my liscense only a few years ago, mostly because I was nervous to drive. I found the only thing that helped was taking a driving course, they force you to drive different places. Plus as someone else said, I find I drive better if I'm by myself, I get so nervous when someone is in the car, like they will judge me. Other than that, just forcing yourself to take small trips, until you get more comfortable. Good luck!

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

Take it one step at a time. Give yourself goals (today I'll drive around the block, tomorrow I'll drive to the grocery store. . .etc.) and before you know it, you'll be there!

My BIL doesnt drive and his wife is afraid to drive. They are so limited in where they can go (they live in queens).

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

IMO, you need to get out there and just drive. Just do it!!! I was scared to learn to drive here, I waited 5 years before taking lessons and taking my test (which I failed the first time) I was scared of driving on the other side, I was scared of driving a manual and I was scared of being scared! But I did it...and it changed my life.

I know it seems harsh, but I say, Just do it.

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

When you figure it out, let me know. I'm scared, too. I'm 25 and don't know how to drive.

GOOD LUCK! You'll be fine!

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

Take small trips in the beginning and when someone else in the car make sure you do the driving. If your mom is picking you up maybe take your car out with her and run some errands. Baby steps and it should help you out.

Good Luck

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

Sorry you are having such a hard time driving. My sil has the same issue. The only advice I can give you is to practice by taking short trips here & there around your neighborhood. You will soon become comfortable enough to start driving on the more busier streets, and then even the expressway. Driving becaome second nature after a while. Sometimes when I'm driving, i dont even realize it. Best of luck to you & I hope you can overcome this fear. Once you do, you wont know how you ever got by without being able to drive.

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

Posted by baghag

When you figure it out, let me know. I'm scared, too. I'm 25 and don't know how to drive.

GOOD LUCK! You'll be fine!

Re: How do I overcome my fear of driving?

Take lessons! I know several people who've been in similar situations and have re-gained their confidence by driving with an objective professional.