“Women are the worst drivers!” – Stop the stigma
At some point, you might have heard the stereotype that all women are bad drivers. Or perhaps like me you’ve heard a relative or friend utter the words “well no wonder that car doesn’t know where it’s going, it’s a woman driving!”
Also read: Dismantling the myth that women are ‘bad drivers’
Is this because traditionally women weren’t the drivers, their partners were. Or is it just because there are more women drivers on the road today?
Either way, there are certain driving habits that women have which separate them from the men.
Women are catching up
In the book, “Why we drive the way we do” it’s suggested that male drivers are likely to be more risky when it comes to their driving styles and therefore end up in far worse accidents. However, while women are more prone to being apprehensive or cautious behind the wheel, being overly apprehensive or hesitant when driving can also lead to accidents.
Driving habits that give women a bad name
Multitasking
As great as we women are at doing multiple things at once, doing them while driving isn’t the smartest idea. When you think you’ve got it all under control (while applying your makeup and talking on your phone) you really don’t notice how much you’re either swerving out of your lane, taking a wrong turn or confusing the driver behind you.
Driving with heels on
So many of us still do this despite numerous warnings in social media about the dangers of driving with heels on. In fact, many experts have called for a ban on it completely. Why? Driving in heels restricts the movement between the bottom of your foot and the pedals. An article in the Daily Mail reported that nearly 40% of women drive in heels.
Indecisiveness
This goes along the lines of hesitation and apprehensiveness when driving. Decisiveness and knowing where and when to move is key to driving and avoiding accidents. Dilly-dallying because you’re uncertain can really frustrate other drivers. Look ahead and be aware of what’s happening with traffic in front of you so that it’s easier to determine and plan your next move.
Distraction
As observant as we are, we’re also easily distracted by things around us. Scenery (like the good-looking runner), “50% off” sale signs, accident scenes and anything unusual is just some of the things that we’ll turn our heads for. Keep your eyes on the car or road in front of you.