Addressing the Anxiety of High-Speed Driving: A Psychological Perspective
Many of us experience a growing fear of our cars failing as we age, even as our vehicles perform reliably. This concern is common among experienced drivers who have been conditioned to trust their cars. Understanding the psychological roots of this anxiety can provide valuable insights into healthy attitudes towards driving, especially at higher speeds.
From Speed to Caution: An Aging Driver’s Story
Recall an instance when I was in my 50s and 60s, I would often test the limits of my car, comfortably driving at speeds around 150 mph. Over the years, as I aged, rather than the technical condition of my car, it was my own fear and discomfort that prevented me from reaching those high speeds. The service personnel reported no objective issues with my vehicle, yet I felt a growing instability and discomfort with the same speed limit. By the time I was in my 80s, my cruising speed had dropped to a modest 80-90 mph. This change reflects a broader truth: age affects our ability to respond quickly and safely, and therefore, our perception of what is safe and comfortable.
Psychological Aspects of Speeding and Safety
Feeling anxious about your car’s stability at high speeds is a deeply rooted psychological issue. It often stems from a concern over your reaction time and ability to handle emergencies. Whether or not you acknowledge it, the slowing down of your reflexes with age makes high-speed driving less feasible. This is not just a matter of car performance but a subjective assessment influenced by mental readiness.
Technical Inspections and Regular Servicing
Even with the psychological hesitation, it’s crucial to maintain your vehicle’s mechanics by having it inspected and serviced regularly. As each car manufacturer prescribes, follow their recommended service schedules. Technical inspections every few years and regular servicing can significantly reduce the risk of sudden mechanical failures. When a failure does occur, your well-maintained car is more likely to allow for a safe stop, mitigating the risk of catastrophic events.
Insurance and Proactive Measures
To further alleviate concerns about car failures, you can consider purchasing roadside assistance. Organizations like AAA provide comprehensive assistance in case of breakdowns, ensuring that you are not stranded on the road. Having a plan in place can significantly reduce stress and provide peace of mind.
Professional Advice and Real-Life Insights
According to my personal experience over 22 years of driving, the occurrence of a car failure is relatively rare. I have had three instances where my vehicles failed on the road, all occurring in vehicles that were at least 10 years old. The most recent failure, in 2011, was my 2001 Volkswagen losing a rear wheel while driving at 55 mph—a situation that was largely my fault after working on the brakes without re-tightening the lug nuts. These incidents highlight that while new cars are designed with safety in mind, fears of high-speed emergencies can sometimes be unfounded.
Believe it or not, experiencing a car failure is not a common occurrence for a well-maintained vehicle. For those exceedingly cautious about speeding, remember that the road is shared by many other drivers who are likely to appreciate responsible behavior over reckless driving. Perpetuating a myth that high-speed driving is inherently dangerous only exacerbates fear and can detract from safe driving practices.
Psychological reassurance combined with regular car maintenance can help manage the anxiety of high-speed driving. Understanding the role of age and reaction time can empower drivers to make informed, safe choices that align with both personal comfort and responsible driving practices.