Among Friends

[KittySoftPaws]

I always try to trust my gut and what my body tells me whenever possible. I had a major accident 6 years ago from a DD and I can tell you what you are experiencing is real and normal. I actually didn't drive anywhere but very short distances for the first year. Luckily I was very close to my job then. Yeah it's a normal reaction, and I wouldn't stress over it and give yourself time to recover. At some point though you will need to face that fear, and just like so many things in life, the fear of it is worse than the reality. 

[Tinkrbl44]

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@gellen wrote:
I had a minor parking lot fender bender yesterday. I am supposed to head out for a quick solo trip on Tuesday. It is about an hour and 1/2 drive which I have done often. I am feeling a little anxious about it and wonder if I should cancel. I would incur a 200.00 cancellation fee. Is this a natural reaction and has anyone experienced the same thing? Thanks in advance

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@gellen 

So ... please give us an update.

Have you driven around the block ... or anywhere ... yet? 

[gellen]

Drove a short distance today. Still not sure about my plans for driving 1 1/2 hours tomorrow on a quick solo vacation. Will probably decide by later tonight. In any case if I cancel I will be out my 200.00 deposit That is not the foremost thing on my mind any way. Friends think I should go. No family close by.

[Mom2Dogs]

I had an accident when I was 16...I am now 70 years old.  It was just a fender bender, nothing serious but I remember asking my dad to drive me home...he said NO....he knew I was upset about the accident but wanted me to feel confident about getting behind the wheel and he was right, even tho it irked me that I had to drive home.

[Tinkrbl44]

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@gellen wrote:
Drove a short distance today. Still not sure about my plans for driving 1 1/2 hours tomorrow on a quick solo vacation. Will probably decide by later tonight. In any case if I cancel I will be out my 200.00 deposit That is not the foremost thing on my mind any way. Friends think I should go. No family close by.

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@gellen 

Your own words say it was a "minor" fender bender.  You didn't cause it.   

Out and about, people bump into each other.  Cars do it, too. 

Even if you cancel and the $200 means nothing, you STILL have to get back on the saddle again, so to speak. 

IMO, please don't drag it out.  

[UpNorthGorgy]

I totaled a car a year ago. Poor visibility with lines of traffic Legs banged up but no breakage. I found being extra cautious which in waiting caused drivers to honk horns. One guy I saw in the rear view mirror one guy threw up his hands mad because I hesitated.

Took a few months to get out and go faster ...at intersections. For months I hated to go through that same intersection with the flashing yellow arrow. I think it is worse when older to snap out of it. Time heals.