Trouble learning to drive cars... I tense up, can't relax... Suggestions???

Answer 1

Some personality types have confidence prematurely and take on tasks or projects with only imaginary preparation.

You appear to be at the other end of the personality spectrum.

I recommend that you do as much as you can before getting behind the wheel.

Study the little booklet the DMV gives you to prepare for the driving test.

Find some material on the internet designed to make you a good driver.

Because most people don't prepare themselves mentally, you will know that you are better prepared than most inexperienced drivers. Then just be alert, courteous and exceptionally cautious when you do start driving and you'll be fine.
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Answer 2

The main reason that I drive a manual is that of control. Occasionally, when performing an overtaking manoeuvre, it is important to be in the correct gear so that maximum torque is available. In my case, this is at about 3500 rpm. The engine then responds strongly and instantly to throttle input. Cost is also an issue. An automatic costs roughly £800-£1000 more than the manual equivalent, and automatics are often available with only one trim or engine option. Also, fuel consumption is better with a manual (unless you're talking top end cars), quite a consideration now that petrol is £5 a gallon.

Answer 3

You need a good teacher, someone who stays relaxed. That will help you relax. Are you not from America? Most Americans learn to drive and have been in cars all their lives so it's no problem.

Answer 4

Go out and drive in empty parking lots, drive around your own local neighborhood off any main roads. Practice practice practice. 22 yrs ago when I learned how to drive there wasn't even 20% of the traffic of today. I can believe its half scary to learn today specially how some drive like maniacs.

Don't drive during rush hour times either 6am-8am, 4pm-6pm as that is when the most traffic is out.

Answer 5

The human body tends to be very relaxed after smoking mass amounts of marijuana or maybe some kind of strong pain pills. You can always get a bicycle too. You'll save money in gas, get exercise and we won't have to worry about you crashing into one of us. Also, if you're foreign or female, give up now. Follow up on the statistics. The biggest percentage of automobile collisions are caused by foreign and female drivers.

Answer 6

okay, i just recently got my permit, so i know how you feel. first of all, make sure who ever is teaching you to drive gives you advance warning of where you're going, when you have to turn, things like that. if you know the route, you're less like to stress about where you're going. as you start out, stick to less busy streets, empty parking lots, etc. once you're comfortable with those, move on to busier streets. don't let too much time go between driving sessions. the longer you go without driving, the harder it is to start back up again. if possible, set up a certain time every week, or whatever works for you so that you're not letting too much of a gap go between driving. oh! and wear sneakers when you drive, flip flops, clogs, etc are liable to slide off your feet or get caught when you're switching from gas to brake or vice versa
remember, every one learns at different paces, and there's no rush.

Answer 7

Like other people said try driving in empty lots at first then gradually move to streets were there is not much traffic, relax but keep sharp

Answer 8

Its all in your head just use your common sense and you will be good When you are first learning start in a parking lot than residential area then go to main streets than the high way.

Answer 9

If you're a beginner, it's very normal and you're going to get used to it. Your legs probably shake getting out of the car, right? After practicing and being behind the wheel for a while, it'll become second nature.

Answer 10

Take some deep breaths. Remember, a car is just a machine. It can't think on its own. It does only what you tell it to do. You're the boss, so why be afraid?