Rebuilding Driving Confidence After a Collision

Feeling shaken after a crash

You may feel tense, keep thinking about the crash or avoid the road where it happened. People recover at different speeds. Get professional help if these feelings are severe, last a long time or affect daily life.

Check practical safety first

• Make sure the vehicle is roadworthy and repairs are complete.
• Adjust the seat, mirrors and controls in a calm setting.
• Choose daylight and good weather for an early drive.
• Take a trusted passenger if that feels helpful.
• Allow plenty of time and start on roads you know.

Build up slowly

1. Sit in the parked vehicle and become comfortable with controls.
2. Drive a short, quiet and familiar route.
3. Repeat the journey until you feel more comfortable before driving further.
4. Add one challenge at a time, such as busier traffic or a motorway.
5. Stop safely if you cannot concentrate.

Helpful habits

Allow extra time and keep distractions down. Try slow breathing before you set off. Notice your progress as well as the difficult moments. A qualified driving instructor can help with driving skills and confidence. A health professional can help with distress that goes beyond driving skills.

When to seek health support

Speak to a GP or NHS service if worry, poor sleep, unwanted memories or avoiding things continue or get worse. Call the emergency services if anyone is in immediate danger. Urgent NHS mental-health support differs across the UK, so use the service for your part of the country.