I remember only too well the first time we took our baby girl home from the hospital. It was terrifying, being responsible for this new and precious life. Immediately my husband’s driving was slower, more cautious, and definitely more intolerant of other people!
Since having children I pay attention to speed limits, use two hands on the wheel, and generally I’m a more careful driver than when I was on my own. I still have the radio on and turn it up when a song I like comes on – I don’t care what the kids say. We did go through a Frozen soundtrack phase for a couple of months but I liked it so I tolerated it.
Once we had three children, we needed a larger car and that was the biggest change in driving. I had to get used to parking it and filling up the road. According to a recent survey by All Car Leasing, 66% of parents bought a new car in preparation for a new baby. It’s not only space that drives these purchases, but safety concerns too. My husband now has a certain minimum of safety standards in any car we buy, not because he doesn’t trust his driving, but in case of an accident. We’re not alone in our anxiety about other drivers; 46% of parents in the survey said other drivers were their biggest concern. I guess it’s the unknown variable, isn’t it? We can change our habits, but the other drivers can’t be trusted.
Coping with accidents
We’ve had two minor scrapes when driving with the kids in the car, and one exploding sunroof. All three were incredibly stressful, and weren’t our fault. All you can do is make sure you’re in the safest car you can afford, and that the car seats you use are again the safest ones you can get. More expensive doesn’t always mean the best, look at all the reviews and make your mind up that way. Only make necessary journeys. By necessary, I include those journeys you make in the middle of the night with a screaming baby to get them to sleep. I’ve been there – or rather I sent my other half out to do it whilst I lay awake with anxiety.
Did you change your car or driving habits once you became a parent? Take a look at the infographic to see if you agree with the survey on parents and their driving habits. Let me know in the comments if you agree!
Disclosure: collaborative post
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