Scared to drive??

Question

I am 16 and just got my temps I am very scared to drive the other day my dad took me to the mall parking lot and showed me how to get used to my car. We drove around the mall and some stores in the back of it and I had to pass cars and people. I was doing pretty good then I came to a stop sign and there was another car that was going to be turning in the lane beside me so I was going to have to turn by them and I got really scared and told them to go first im just scared that I am going to hit them. Anyway my dad is taking me out again today and I am really scared is there any tips on how to stay in your lane. And how to turn by people with out hitting them. Please I really need anwers I am really scared and nervous. Thanks

Answer 1

Get as much practice as possible, in quiet areas initially, until you are ready to move up a notch. Do this for as long as it takes.

Unless a professional instructor is gently trying to build your confidence try not to let well-meaning family or friends push you into anything before you are ready for it.

Learn routines. One of the most effective and useful of these is the British "M-S-M" ("Mirror, Signal, Maneuver")

At all costs avoid practicing with instructors or friends who make you feel worse.

Safe driving tips..............

STEERING Steer smoothly whether you are driving straight ahead, turning or backing up.

ACCELERATION Accelerate smoothly and moderately. Don't race the engine or cause it to stall.

BRAKING Bring the vehicle to a stop gently. Start braking well before your stopping position to avoid "jerky" stops. Make sure you stop your vehicle in the proper position of the lane.

CLUTCH/GEAR Always be sure your vehicle is in the correct gear. With either an automatic or a manual transmission, shift into the proper gear at the right time without "grinding" the gears.

SPEED Obey the posted speed limit, of course, but also adjust your speed properly due to weather, road, visibility and traffic conditions.

FOLLOWING DISTANCE Keep an adequate space "cushion" between your vehicle and those you are following. Use the "two second rule" described in the Driver's Manual. Be sure to increase your following distance in poor weather or visibility.

TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES Know the meanings of signs, signals and pavement markings, and obey them consistently.

STOPPING POSITION If a stop is required, stop your vehicle before it reaches an intersecting street. If stop lines or crosswalks are present, stop before crossing them. If your view is blocked after stopping behind the crosswalk, move up until you can clearly see your way, then stop again if necessary.

LANE SELECTION AND POSITION Keep your vehicle in the proper traffic lane, especially when preparing to make turns. Don't allow room for another vehicle to pass you on the side that you are turning toward.

COMMUNICATION Let other drivers and pedestrians know which way you want to go. Use your directional signals or horn consistently and at the proper times.

OBSERVATION Look for and identify potential problems or hazards in the traffic around you - not just straight ahead, but behind you and on either side. Check your mirrors frequently, but be sure to look over your shoulder behind you when changing lanes or backing up.

ANTICIPATE & REACT TO OTHERS Anticipate possible driving errors by others and be ready to react safely to make up for their mistakes.

Answer 2

its human nature to be nervous, driving is a huge step in a teens life and lifestyle, just relax and it will all work out in a little time.  good ;luck

Answer 3

It's just going to take time.  As long as your dad is patient and doesn't get frustrated, just listen to him and try to relax.  It's okay to ask people to go first when you are uneasy but always make clear gestures so they know exactly what you are asking of them.

Answer 4

Remember that you control MOST of the things around you while driving...and MOST importantly of all...you control the car! Be a patient, polite, and pretty driver and others driving and walking will be very nice to you. Oh, and PRACTICE! Youll be fine...hope all goes well! AND have your dad take you to a more secluded place...the mall is not the best choice for a begginer what with all the moving/parked cars and people!

Answer 5

keep working at it. look around at the number of drivers there is no reason to be worried

Answer 6

Everyone is scared at first. Keep practicing, the nerves will lighten up, trust me. I would practice first in an empty parking lot if you can find one..its much easier and definitely less nerve racking.

Answer 7

i was terrified to drive for about 3 months wheni first started driving. it's about getting confortable with yourself and your vehicle. right now it might feel like omg, there's no way i am going to get used to manuvering my car around tight spaces or people but trust me, it gets easier. you start getting used to the distance around your vehicle and the more you drive the more you'll relax. just give it some time.

Answer 8

take a deep breath when you get in and have confidence in your self, looks like you need more practice like i did but no i just got mine, i would say drive in a empty parking lot, put  some cones up and practice ur parking dont worry youll pick it up

Answer 9

It just takes a lot of practice. I didn't think I was ever going to learn how to drive. My mom started me out in a big parking lot and I practiced there for a long time before I got brave enough to drive on the road. My mom had me practice a lot on back roads where there was very little traffic and then I moved up to driving where there was more traffic. I used to freak out anytime a car would come near me but after a few days of driving I got to where it didn't bother me any more.