Advice from an Auto Repair Shop Reduce Driving Stress!

Getting stressed out when behind the wheel can turn a daily commute into a dangerous event. It is easy to let the little things throughout the day create an unpleasant drive. Take some advice from an auto repair shop on ways to help reduce stress while driving. Don't find yourself needing major auto repair services because of a stress-related accident.

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Consider these stress-reducing tips offered by an auto repair shop:

1. Go Zen – Make your car a calming oasis--an air freshener with essential oils, a massaging seat cover, or subdued music. Remove items that might distract you, such as a water bottle rolling around in the back seat; a ringing phone (put it in driving mode, or silence it altogether), or papers sliding around on the seat beside you.

2. Allow Extra Time – Give yourself extra time to get to your destination (including a 'getting lost' buffer). It is better to be late than to be the cause of an accident or getting pulled over!

3. Check Your Route in Advance – Plan ahead to avoid major construction or traffic delays. With smart phones and in-dash navigation, it's easy to start your trip without a second thought.

4. Keep Snacks Handy -- Keep non-perishable snacks in the car for emergency situations. Being hungry and stuck in the car can cause irritable behavior.

5. Avoid Bored Kids. Minimize fighting or grumpy behavior by having games, videos, or other entertainment methods on hand.

6. Be Prepared – Plan ahead for things that make you nervous, (practice parallel parking, reversing, or turning). You will have less stress when you encounter them in real-life driving situations.

7. Use Technology -- Safety systems, like rearview cameras and blind spot warning systems, can take the pressure out of stressful driving situations. If you have the technology—use it!

8. Recognize Stress – If you recognize the symptoms of stress (such as a death-grip on the steering wheel or hunching over), take deep breaths, deliberately relax your hands and fingers, and try leaning back. If necessary, pullover, grab a cup of coffee, and relax for a minute.

Remember: Don't drive while stressed out! It could save your life or the lives of others.

Looking for a professional auto repair shop? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information and to find out more about our auto repair services. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.