Is there anyone else who really panics when they start driving?? or is it just me?

Question

I get really nervous when I start to drive I've had about 2 lessons and everytime a car comes near me i panic sooo much

Answer 1

Emma, it is natural that you're nervous because you are just starting to learn how to do something which you've never done before. You must tell your instructor how you feel and you can expect him to be patient and teach you how to control the car off road until you feel more confident. The only reason you feel so panicked is because you aren't fully in control yet. Don't worry if you feel you need to stop learning - to catch your breath - not everyone is ready to start driving as soon as they hit 17!

I started learning at 17 and then took a 3 year break then I passed first time. Now I race (on the track) whenever I can!

Good luck!

Answer 2

Your driving lessons will not be enough to give you the confidence to drive, unless you're really lucky, they will only teach you how to drive. It takes a lot of practice, so don't rush yourself, or get angry with yourself at not being as good as others. Pick a road, or time of the day, when there is no traffic, and just get comfortable with your car. E.g. If you panic when you see another car and stall the engine, practice feeling the point when the clutch starts to bite, and balancing the throttle/clutch to get the car to move at a steady speed, with no jerks. This will soon become second nature, then you need to focus only on steering to avoid the oncoming car. Also practice how much steering gets you how much turn, so you don't have to think of it, and can keep your attention fixed on the road. Also practice estimating where the 4 corners of the car are in relation to the edges of the road, so you know how much clearance on the road. Once you get this under your belt, you can easily handle all the idiots on the road, and there quite a few of those out there. Best of Luck.

Answer 3

I did, but it's getting better. I learned to drive when I was 16, then drove occasionally, then didn't drive at all for about 7-8 years, and now I'm 30 and finally just got my first car. So I basically had to re-learn how to drive.

It's was nerve-wracking at first, but here's what helps:

1. Relax. Stay calm, pay attention. You're in control.
2. Other drivers will occasionally get mad. Don't let their little road-rage fits affect you. They obviously have other issues, and have no other outlet than at other drivers. Just keep doing the right thing.
3. Drive assertively but offensively. Always try to anticipate what the other guy is doing.

Soon all of these things will come naturally and you won't even have to think about it.

Answer 4

I also panicked when I had my driving lessons- as soon as I would get in the car I would start to get nervous and my heart would be beating very quickly. And this caused me to do things wrong. It didn't go away and so after 10 lessons I quit due to this. If I were you I would see how it goes but if it continues seek medical advice because it can cause severe anxiety and panic attacks.

Answer 5

If you've only just started driving its probably natural- I didnt drive for over a year and when I started again I eally paniced because I felt like I was so close to the cars- even parked ones but then I totally got over it- dont worry- my instructor always told me its not you you've got to worry about on the road its all the other idiots!

Answer 6

I clutch the wheel so hard I leave imprints in the steering wheel.

I break out in a sweat and shake uncontrollable.

I hate driving, I get so nervous, I end up drving on the wrong side of the road.

I've had 11 total wreaks and the last one put me in the hospital for 6 months - none have been my fault.

Good luck, you'll need it. I think I'm going to give up driving.

Oh, BTW - I'm left handed.

Answer 7

When i was doing my driving lessons i didnt panic,But now i have passed my driving test i feel more worried/panicy but i guess thats just because im on my own now ( if that makes sense!)and the cars seem to get right up my a*r*s*e. at the end of the day you are learning and you shouldnt feel 'panicy' rushed etc by any other cars because you are still learning and at one point they had to learn too! just take your time! xx

Answer 8

My husband had this problem (he didn't learn to drive until after we married)... You'll get better with time. It's just something you have to get used to. My husband's been driving for about 4 years now and he is comfortable as can be behind the wheel... it just took some time.

Good luck!

Answer 9

I can't say I do get nervous...but my mother failed the test 3 times and she's a great driver!! practice will remove it. good luck! =) Now driving in foreign countries makes me nervous...

Answer 10

I cant stess this enough mate. PLEASE STOP LEARNING.
The world of cars is already dangerous enough without another scared witless woman, or man driver.
When you drive you need to be confident and in control, even for driving to the shops. Your lack off confidence will only make driving even more dangerous.
STOP IT NOW PLEASE