Feeling Fearful After a Car Accident? Here’s What You Need To Do
Having just been involved in a car accident is an incredibly scary and overwhelming experience for any driver. Unfortunately, the repercussions of an accident can extend far past the hour or even days after the crash. One of the most common post-accident side effects is an intense fear of driving. While the fear of driving can be paralyzing, it is possible to overcome the fear of driving after a car accident. With thoughtful preparation, you can take steps each day to build your confidence and help you become a confident driver once again.
1. Acknowledge the Fear
Be Honest With Yourself About the Fear
It is perfectly understandable to be fearful of getting back behind the wheel after an accident. It is important to be honest with yourself that your fear is present and has been triggered by the accident. Gently acknowledging the fear and being kind to yourself is a very important first step when coping with fear of driving after an accident.
Understand the Reason For the Fear
Analyzing the source of your fear is the next step to help you overcome the fear of driving after a car accident. Review the accident and assess any triggers that may have sparked your fear. Understanding the cause of the fear may provide insight into why the fear exists, and can better equip you with the tools and strategies to build up your confidence to take the wheel again.
2. Build Your Confidence
Create a Support System
Achieving success when attempting a feat like facing the fear of driving after an accident is much easier said than done, and having support from friends, family and professionals can make this process easier. Check in with yourself each day, and stay connected with your support system to build confidence and ease fear.
Think Small
Start small and build your confidence gradually. Begin with smaller activities like parking lots, familiar roads, and increasing distances during each drive. This tip is proven to work, according to experts in the field, and graduallyachieving goals creates a sense of accomplishment to bolsters confidence and decreases fear.
3. Take Your Time
Driving at Your Own Pace
Striving to reach certain milestones too quickly and pressuring yourself to drive can create additional stress and increase fear. Everyone has a different healing process and journey. Respect your timeline and allow yourself to slowly adapt and adjust to getting back behind the wheel.
Understand That Healing Takes Time
When overcoming the fear of driving after a car accident, it’s important to be patient and kind to yourself along the journey. It won’t happen overnight, but commit to a few small steps each day and notice any progress along the way.
People Also Ask
What is the best way to deal with fear after a car accident?
The best way to deal with fear after a car accident is to be honest with yourself and acknowledge the fear. Create a support system and slowly build your confidence and practice driving at your own pace.
How do I know when I’m ready to drive again?
You will know when you’re ready to drive again when you start feeling more confident and less fearful while driving.
How can I prepare myself for driving again?
Preparing yourself for getting back behind the wheel includes creating a support system for yourself, analyzing the cause of your fear and understanding the reason for your fear, and thinking small by taking it slow and gradually increasing your confidence and the distances you drive.
What should I do if I can’t overcome my fear of driving?
If you can’t overcome your fear of driving, it is important to speak to a professional, such as a therapist or a doctor, if needed.
Final Thoughts
Driving after a car accident can be intimidating, let alone overcoming the fear of driving after an accident. With a few simple steps and a touch of self-care, progress can be made in coming to terms with the fear and successfully expanding your skills and confidence behind the wheel. Acknowledge the fear and the cause, establish a support system, think small, take time and gain confidence. Following these simple suggestions will help put you back in the driver’s seat again and allow you to feel totally resourced and in control.