Returning to driving after a break can be a nerve wracking experience. Whether you passed your test a while ago and have just bought a car, or you’ve simply had a break from driving for a period of time, it is important to feel confident when driving, and up to speed with the latest rules of the roads.
Whatever your reason is for wishing to return to driving, there are a number of steps that can help you to regain your confidence behind the wheel.
Refresher Course
Driving refresher courses are ideal if you would like to update your driving skills, and you have the benefit of guidance from a professional driving instructor. Your instructor will be able to support you with any areas of driving you may feel less confident about, such as motorway driving, driving at night or roundabouts. A professional instructor will also be able to bring you up to speed with any changes to the law and driving rules since you last drove.
Most courses will also teach you how to drive more efficiently, reducing your fuel costs and minimising the impact of your driving on the environment.
Refresher courses are widely available from most driving schools and, unlike the first time your learnt to drive, there is no test at the end of the course.
Get Insured
Another option to consider is getting insured on a friend or family member’s car. The price of being added to an existing policy can vary based on a range of factors including your age, how long you have held your driving licence and your driving history. There is often also an amendment fee for being added to a policy, on top of any changes to the premium.
Being added to someone else’s policy if you don’t own your own car can be a good way to build up your own no claims bonus. PayingTooMuch.com, a leading independent insurance price comparison website, can assist you to find a car insurance policy suitable for your needs. Visit our car insurance page for more information.
Other Tips
- Start with short drives on roads that you are familiar with to build your confidence. As your confidence grows you can gradually increase the length of each journey.
- Initially plan to drive on quiet roads at less busy times of day, and avoid the rush hour until you feel ready.
- Having someone that is calm and experienced with you on your first few drives will give you a confidence boost and provide reassurance should you need it.
- Planning your journey before you begin, and the route that you will take, will help you to anticipate the driving that you will be doing and ease anxiety.
If you’ve got any other helpful hints or tips for getting back on the road, use the comments section below to help others back into the driving seat.
