How To Be A Confident Driver

However experienced you are, it’s common to lose your driving confidence sometimes. Maria McCarthy helps you overcome your fears

Once you’ve torn up your L-plates, it’s assumed that, from that moment on, you’ll be equipped to drive anywhere at any time. But that isn’t always the case. ‘Driving confidence can wax and wane throughout our lives,’ says Joanne Mallon, author of How to Overcome Fear of Driving.

‘Driving anxiety is far more widespread than is generally realised, as people are often embarrassed to admit to it. It’s particularly common among motorists who’ve experienced an accident, have had a break from driving or have recently undergone a major life change.

‘A car accident led to me avoiding driving for seven years, but now I can and do drive for pleasure. There are lots of ways to get your driving mojo back, ranging from driving tips and refresher lessons to breathing exercises or hypnotherapy.’

New routes

Many women handle their regular commute, the school run and local trips without any problem at all. But the prospect of driving to a wedding or conference miles away is far more daunting.