Fear Of Driving Again

The fear of driving again is a fact that many people are unable to cope with. In most cases, it affects individuals who develop post-traumatic stress disorder, which may require professional help to avoid amaxophobia. Or what is the same: extreme panic to sit behind the wheel of a car.

They can also be affected by the fear of driving many pedestrians, for no apparent reason for it, being victims of these episodes of anxiety.

Amaxophobia is manifested in 30% of Spanish drivers. At least 6% of this group are unable to even contemplate the possibility of taking a car and starting out.

Is driving too risky?

This is a frequent question of many of those who aspire to buy a car of their own. It is also a common uncertainty among drivers in the learning stage or with little experience; even among ‘veteran’ drivers with years of driving, who have never been totally comfortable.

Being aware of the risks involved in traveling by car does not mean giving in to them. The point is to take the proper precautions, and to appeal to common sense. Many of the traffic accidents can be avoided with a little of this component.

Those who are afraid of driving again after being in a car accident should know that they are in the same danger as pedestrians . But being defeated by fears shouldn’t be an option.

Keys to not letting yourself be overcome by the fear of driving again

• Those who suspect that they suffer from amaxophobia, can take some written tests whose results can be quite accurate . Answering them can help determine if treatment is needed.
• When this fear appears, the first step in seeking to regain lost confidence is to travel as a co-pilot. If possible next to a calm and leisurely driver, who can easily comply with traffic laws.

• Traveling alone is not recommended. As normalcy returns and the fear of driving again is overcome, keeping company is a good idea. It is important to have an ally to help you overcome any possible episode of uncertainty.
• Another important help is to seek advice from those who have suffered from these difficulties. Help can include anything from the recommendation of a trusted therapist to exercises to control anxiety. This is the case of meditation or yoga.
• All drivers, and also pedestrians must have full knowledge of the laws and all regulations governing vehicle traffic. Respecting the rules is the best way to avoid fear or phobias behind the wheel.
• To regain confidence, it is better to start with short runs. Remember that urban routes on weekdays are not the best option; the high traffic flow can be as stressful as a trip from end to end throughout the Iberian Peninsula.

A surmountable fear?

Some of the people who are affected by the fear of driving again, are able to overcome the trance without resorting to specialists. However, most choose to seek professional help. There are services that go from therapies with psychologists or psychiatrists, to driving courses in auto schools.

Amaxophobia presents some symptoms that are almost always overlooked or considered simply as signs of stress. These signs include headaches and cold sweats, dizziness, or shaky legs.

Other frequent signs are extreme difficulties when faced with certain maneuvers, such as backing up or parking. Also to overtake other vehicles during high-speed marches on roads and highways. A symptom that is also recurrent is having frequent sensations of loss of control of the steering wheel, if you drive at more than 80 kilometers per hour.

Once the phobia is overcome, a reeducated driver remains

It is not an exact science, although it is a fact that occurs with considerable incidence. Those who are involved in road accidents and are able to successfully and definitively overcome any fear of driving again, tend to become the drivers who most adhere to road traffic regulations.