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I am Maria, I don't answer inbox questions (with very few exceptions, for example those people that use proper grammar and spelling). I try my best to point people in the right direction when I am answering questions.



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Hello. This is LM, and this time I'm the one who needs advice! Anyways, I recently got my permit. I went through driver's ed, I'm doing driving school in a couple months, etc. etc.

I know the rules of the road, I don't speed, things like that. I went on the highway for the first time today, got off at the first exit, and ended up in rush hour traffic (well, for a small town we have a LOT of cars, haha) and to put it bluntly, I freaked out. I didn't lose control of the car, so I know I as doing okay. Is there any way I can reduce my anxiety/nervousness about driving? Tips from experienced drivers, or actually anyone who drives legally, will help me out more than you can imagine.

Thanks in advance! ♥

I've been behind the wheel for a year and a half now, and I was pretty scared starting out, too.

Have a trusted adult with you when possible. Someone who won't freak out, and if something does happen, will be able to handle the situation calmly.

Always know the exact directions to wherever you're going.

Similarly, know the rules of the streets. For example, which streets are "one way" streets, which lanes are for turns

Change lanes ahead of time. (and always do S.M.O.G. Signal, check in Mirror, look Over shoulder, Go)

If you are really nervous, put on some music. Do this before you start driving, and once you do, no changing channels or skipping songs!! Keep both hands on the wheel. Have the music play softly so you won't get distracted.

Glance at the rear-view and side-view mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds. Knowing what's going on around you can put you more at ease.

Don't let bad drivers get to you. If someone is tail gaiting you switch lanes and let them pass. Keeping other drivers happy will make you more happy thus more comfortable.

Drivers will honk at you from behind once in a while. The first time this happened to me, my instinct was to GO, and unfortunately, I did, and almost ran over a person that the honking driver behind me didn't see. So if someone honks at you, ignore it.

Same thing with passengers, never trust them. If they tell you "Its safe to go now," or something along those lines, check for yourself.

Your nervousness should stop though as you get more accustomed to driving. If you feel like your nervousness is taking over your ability to drive, pull over, turn off the car, and take a couple deep breaths to calm down.

~Maria, 16

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(Rating: 5) Thanks a lot. Very helpful
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