SHE SAYS...

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 32251, 20 March 1970, Page 13

SHE SAYS...

The only really effective way to restore one’s nerve and confidence in driving after being involved in an accident or having a “close shave” is to get behind that steering-wheel and drive again immediately, or as soon as possible after the incident Everyone gets an attack of nervousness after a bad scare at the wheel, and many times I have heard women say a friend or husband made them get back behind the wheel and carry on driving after such an incident, “and if he hadn’t I don’t think I would have ever had the nerve to drive again.” I have also heard of women, particularly “new” drivers or those still under instruction, who did not drive after a minor accident lost their confidence completely, and gave up driving altogether.

But if you get back behind the wheel as soon as possible, you have no time to dwell on the incident the consequences, and the “might have beens.’ Once home, you have time and opportunity to think things over from a more balanced point of view. Better still, talk the incident over with someone, and if

you did make a mistake, try to learn from it

Do not be too discouraged if you feel rather nervous about driving for some time afterwards, because it does take some people considerably more time and driving distance to feel really happy behind the wheel again. Drive alone on short trips for a start then take a longer journey, and persist with your driving until you feel confident once more—but not over-confident for over-confidence often leads to accidents.

Many drivers, after an accident say they have lost their confidence in the judgment and skill of others on the road. But this is a good thing. You simply cannot rely on others on the road to do the predictable thing, you must expect the unexpected: that is what defensive driving is all about. Above all, do not give up your driving. If your confidence is really shattered, it is even worth while going “back to school,” and taking some “refresher course” drives with a driving instructor. He will tell you of any bad habits you may have formed, and if he is worth his title, will help restore your confidence surprisingly quickly.