How Nervous Drivers Can Conquer Anxiety

If you’ve been in an accident, auto body repair may not be your only concern. Many people suffer from anxiety behind the wheel after they have experienced an accident or other dangerous driving situations, long after the collision repairs are completed. If you’re dealing with anxiety while driving, this advice can help you overcome it.

Start Slowly

One of the worst things you can do for your anxiety is to avoid driving because the longer you stay off the roads, the more nervous you will feel about actually getting into a car. However, you don’t have to immediately drive on the interstate during rush hour. Stick to side streets and quiet driving times as you practice building your confidence. You may even benefit from driving around empty parking lots until being behind the wheel feels like second nature again. When you feel comfortable, start increasing your driving on busier roads in small increments as your confidence increases.

Follow Safe Driving Rules

If you’re anxious behind the wheel, going over the speed limit, frequently changing lanes, and using your phone are just some of the bad habits that can increase your nervousness. Drive in a way that makes you feel safe. For example, stay in the right lane on the highway instead of trying to keep up with the cars in the fast lane and turn off your phone notifications so you’re not distracted by the sounds.

Use Mindfulness

Being mindful means paying attention to the signs of your anxiety and proactively trying to control them. If you notice that you’re clenching your muscles while you drive, work on relaxing them. If your mind is envisioning dangerous situations, talk yourself into thinking more realistically. Being mindful puts you in control of your anxiety, so can drive with more confidence.

At Michael J’s Body Shop, we can return your car to roadworthy condition after an accident with collision repair services in San Jose. If you need auto body repairs, please call us today at 408-279-2070.