Your guide to car phobia

Friday the 13th is here, and we’re talking about fear – specifically, fear of cars. Do you have or know someone who has a car phobia? They exist, and our Orlando Toyota specialists are breaking down some of the most common ones for you in this guide.

What causes a car phobia?

Motorphobia: This car phobia is the fear of cars themselves. It’s also referred to as ochophobia. This fear can extend to being around or thinking about a car, much less being in it!

Dystychiphobia: This car phobia is the fear of accidents. People with it often have an intense fear of danger on the road and that danger resulting in an accident or collision.

Amaxophobia: This car phobia is the fear of riding in a vehicle. It goes for both drivers and passengers – even if you’re not driving, if you have this phobia then you have an intense fear of being in a moving vehicle.

Vehophobia: Conversely, this car phobia is the fear of driving a car. People with it may be fine riding in an Orlando Toyota, but they don’t want to be the one behind the wheel as that can cause intense fear.

Hodophobia: This is the fear of road travel. People with this car phobia are not in it for road trips. Driving on a highway or street causes serious fear for them.

What else can cause a car phobia?

Now, let’s discuss some specific car phobias that involve more than just the fear of cars and being in or driving one.

Gephyrophobia: This is the fear of driving over bridges (again, valid). Normal roads may be no issue for folks with this car phobia, but having to drive over a bridge can cause intense fear.

Photoaugliaphobia: This is a phobia of glaring lights. Drivers who have this phobia may be fine driving during the day, but driving their Orlando Toyota at night and facing bright headlights can cause them intense fear.

Autoplenophobia: This car phobia is the fear of car washes. Whether it’s the loud noises, the water washing over the car, or the machinery involved, people with this phobia can’t stomach driving their car through car washes.

Technophobia: People with this particular phobia have a fear of advanced technology or complex devices. With all of the new technology in cars (especially our cars at Toyota of Orlando), this phobia can quickly become a problem for drivers who suffer from it.

Claustrophobia: You’ve probably heard this one as it extends beyond the automotive world. It’s the fear of confined places – like the cabin of a car.

Toyota of Orlando’s safe driving tips for hitting the road

Even if you don’t have a car phobia, hitting the road can be scary at times. Here are a few quick safety tips to follow when you’re behind the wheel.

• Put your phone down. Distracted driving greatly increases your chances of getting into a car accident or collision. That text can wait until you reach your destination.
• Use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for navigation. This will project your map information right onto your Orlando Toyota’s touchscreen so you can quickly refer to it and keep your eyes on the road when it matters most.
• Take care of your car. Driving a car that’s in bad condition can lead to breakdowns, tire blowouts, and other roadside emergencies that can result in accident or injury.
• Follow road rules. Do your part to stay safe in your Orlando Toyota. Follow the speed limit, use your turn signals, check blind spots, and come to complete stops at stop signs.
• Avoid aggressive driving. Being late is better than being in an accident. Avoid driving aggressively to avoid damage to your car and injury to yourself.

Find a safe new car at Toyota of Orlando

Want a safe Toyota to hit the road in? Contact us today at Toyota of Orlando at (407) 298-4500.

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