New driver anxiety

[shabbadababa]

Hey guys, sorry to post on here dont know where to post but most will have a car so thought ide give it ago.

Basically I'm a new driver , got my car 8 days ago. Been trying to build my confidence up and go to places I know to build myself up abit. I'm struggling alot with my Confidence. I'm having to go places I never have then I back out because I'm petrified of not knowing where I am or where to go. I even feel like giving the car back (finance car) as I I'm petrified and feel like I'm wasting money on a car I'm too scared to branch out in. I'm so comfortable when driving and going places I know but the thought of driving past 4pm when it gets dark from my children's swimming lessons for example is terrifying. I hate the dark I feel like I cant see the signs or road markings properly I've got toj much anxiety on other road users ( stupid ones) that are daft and speed past me or cut infront with know indication when i have my children in the back , my children ask to go places and I'm so scared to do it. I don't know what too do. Any advice would be great. Thankyou

Aw, OP, that sounds difficult. If I were you, I’d get some more lessons based on your needs. If you can, get some lessons in the dark or book onto an advanced driving course (which could get you cheaper insurance too). A good instructor will allay your worries. Best of luck.

Have you got P plates on the car so that other drivers know that you might be a little hesitant? Can you practice with a friend at the weekends in your car? The only way really yo get more confident is to keep doing it. Would you consider getting an automatic car so there is less to think about?

Hi! Yes I have p plates , and I have automatic too! I just need to belive in myself more!:(

Hi OP,

Try to get out on the routes you know in the dark to get your confidence up, I was in a simialr situ, learned to drive late as I hadn't needed it before we'd moved further out and had a baby, if there was a route I didn't know I'd go on google maps on my laptop (street view mode) and literally do the route that waze would tell me on there so i knew which bits to look out for etc, that really helped, don't give up, just try not to let other drivers rushing impact on you in an unsafe way. I still feel a bit nervous sometimes but it's such a lifeline for a new mum if you don't have great transport around, good luck! extra lessons or going out with someone you trust should also help