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After you get your license, you might be nervous about actually getting behind the wheel and driving alone. Staying calm is important, but it’s natural to feel on edge and apprehensive as you embark on the road without an instructor or chaperone by your side. Follow these five tips to keep a clear head and reduce driving anxiety. Remember everyone gets used to driving at their own pace, and it’s okay if you still need to get a ride from someone else until you’re more confident. Before you get behind the wheel, make sure you’re covered by reliable auto insurance San Diego drivers of all skill levels can trust the professionals from Altra Insurance Services for high-quality service.
Drive Alone First
All your friends may want you to be their go-to driver now, but it’s best to get completely comfortable driving on your own before you let others ride with you. Friends are great company, but they can also be a major distraction. It’s important to be honest with them and not allow anyone to pressure you into driving them when you aren’t fully comfortable yet.
Keep Your Phone on Silent
Check your social media and respond to any messages before you drive. Put your phone’s ringer on silent and keep it under the passenger’s seat or in the glove box when you’re behind the wheel. Phones are a major cause of distracted driving, which can have devastating consequences. Nothing is more important than your safety when you drive.
Start Small
You don’t have to drive dozens of miles the first time you drive alone. It’s okay to start with small trips down the block, and you can even take the car out to cruise around the neighborhood and gain more confidence as a driver. If you’re extremely hesitant or anxious about driving on busy roads or the highway, build up to that rather than forcing yourself to go despite your fear.
Check Your Seat
Make sure your seat’s position is comfortable. You should be able to see the road clearly without feeling like you’re wedged under the wheel. Driving comfortably will make you feel more natural in your vehicle, reducing tension and allowing you to feel more in control as you drive.
Take Familiar Routes
Don’t try to go off the grid when you’re just starting out. New drivers do best navigating familiar roads and taking short trips. Offer to take your family members to run errands, or just drive yourself to a friend’s house and back. By driving on roads you’re comfortable with, it’ll become easier to feel more relaxed and confident. You should also steer clear of driving late at night or during periods of heavy traffic. These are situations that can stress experienced drivers too, and it’s best to wait until you feel more confident in your driving skills before you put yourself in a tense situation.
Starting out slowly as you’re learning to drive is one of the safest ways to get comfortable behind the wheel. You’ll also get peace of mind knowing that if you’re in an accident, you’re covered by high-quality auto insurance. Reach out to us at Altra Insurance Services for affordable, reliable insurance and unmatched service. We offer a variety of insurance products, including auto, homeowners, business, and auto insurance Chula Vista, residents should give us a call today at 619-474-6666.