POLL: How do you tell someone you love that their driving is bad?

POLL: How do you tell someone you love that their driving is bad?

We want to know what you would do...

Texting and driving stock image
perfectlab / iStock

Most of us have experienced sitting in a passenger seat, holding our breath as the driver breaks every rule in the book.

From speeding to texting and lane-switching without indicating, it feels like an accident waiting to happen.

If you're currently going through something like this and are unsure of how to address it, here are some tips to help you navigate the conversation:

  • Tell them the truth

TopDriver.com suggests telling the driver exactly how you feel about their dangerous manoeuvres. If the person heeds your advice and stops their recklessness, be sure to thank them for listening to you. If not, feel free to tell them again and ask if they’d like to be reminded when they do things that make you nervous.

  • Hint hint, nudge nudge!

If the direct approach is not for you, try to be indirect in how you inform them. Offer to text on behalf of them or ask them if you could help them relax (if they’re speeding). You could also make note of things you see on the road like speed cameras or police vehicles so the driver can be more aware of facing the law for their actions.

  • Audibly note other bad drivers

Another suggestion we’ve come across is informing the driver of others who are committing the same reckless acts on the road. Point out if you see someone speeding or texting and tell the driver how that makes you feel.

How would you tell them? Answer our poll here:

If our tips don’t come in handy, DriveFit suggests giving the driver time to process what you’ve said. 

They explain that driving represents both freedom and independence to many and being criticised (no matter how good your intentions may be) can make anyone feel the need to be defensive.

If all else fails, it's best to stop getting in the car with said driver and hope that in time, they change their ways.

Stacey and J Sbu podcasts

Follow us on social media: 

HOW TO LISTEN TO EAST COAST RADIO

  1. Listen to East Coast Radio on the FM (frequency modulation) spectrum between 94 and 95 FM on your radio.
  2. Listen live to ECR by clicking here or download the ECR App (iOS/Android).
  3. Listen to East Coast Radio on the DStv audio bouquet, channel 836. 
  4. Switch to the audio bouquet on your Openview decoder and browse to channel 606
  5. Listen to us on Amazon Alexa

MORE ON EAST COAST RADIO


Images courtesy of iStock

Show's Stories