the driver's handbook

4. Do you often find it difficult to decide when
to join traffic on busy roads?
Most of us would like to answer never, but if you ticked sometimes or
always, you are also not alone.
Surveys about driving attitudes show that some older
drivers lack confidence and feel nervous on busy roads or
intersections.
The reason most often expressed is that other people drive too
fast. This may be due to some older drivers not noticing other cars
early enough because declining vision gives the impression that the
other vehicles are travelling too fast. This could be a valid reason
for avoiding peak traffic times and busy roads. However, better
knowledge of how to drive on busy roads should make it easier when
you do need to use busy roads.
Suggestions:
• Be careful that you do not let other drivers influence you into
taking unnecessary risks. You alone are the person responsible
for the safety of your car, passengers and other road users.
• Consider taking a refresher course with a driving school to build
up your confidence and update your driving skills and road rules
knowledge.
• If you are still nervous and still have doubts about driving on busy
roads, regardless of what you have learnt to do, try to avoid them.
The Driver’s Handbook 131