Handling backseat drivers: 7 tips to follow

Driving with someone who comments on your driving constantly can be annoying and distracting. It is difficult to tell them that you don’t need their unsolicited advice, however well-intentioned, without hurting their feelings.

Some backseat drivers can actually trace their personality to specific, traumatizing life events -- like having experienced a traumatic road accident. It originates from a psychological trait that's usually considered positive, that you're capable enough to influence any situation for the better.

Yes, backseat drivers are annoying and distracting

Rather than being productive and giving real advice for the driver, backseat drivers can increase the risk of an accident. There are ways you can approach this issue that doesn't end in an argument.

So what to do if your passenger keeps going to complain about every moves you make or even teach you how to control the drive? Some people will opt to be silent, and some seem to be creative in their approach, especially if it is your spouse or a family member.

Here are tips to avoid arguments brought by Philkotse.com. Remember that no matter what happens, you have all the power and that your word is the final one when your car hits the road.

1. Subtly let them know about the danger

According to a recent study with 1000 drivers, more than 14% reported facing problems of distraction from annoying backseat drivers. Although the intention of backseat drivers is for a safer drive, you should tell them that their complaints are affecting your mind and definitely lead to the chances of serious accidents.

Let them know they are distracting you and can endanger the trip

2. Calmly tell them how you feel

Don't let the constant comments of your backseat driver affect you, no matter how irritating. Don't let your emotions affect you when responding. Backseat drivers are usually covering their own anxieties.

It's essential to stay calm so as not to heighten the situation. Recognize their worries and be open in telling them how their reactions affect you and possibly your ability to drive.

>>> For further reference: Tips to stay calm behind the wheel and avoid road rage

3. Give them something to do

For some couples, the passenger’s job is to help the driver navigate and tell the driver where to turn. That is usually a smart thought. Giving a backseat driver a particular assignment to concentrate on might let them comment less on your driving.

What's more, if the comments would be telling you which way to go, making that their official job and it could make life easy for both of you.

Give your passengers something to do

4. Find something to listen to

Bringing an iPod or audiobooks would be an excellent idea because both of you are forced to be quiet. Music is an excellent option, particularly that which both of you appreciate. Give the backseat driver a chance to get occupied with music while being a passenger in your vehicle.

Let him/her check your playlist in the car.  If they appreciate the music, they will concentrate more on singing or listening rather than on your driving. However, it should not be too loud as it can also cause a distraction on you.

Listen to music help you to ignore annoying comment from backseat passengers

5. Let your backseat driver drive

Another way to stop a backseat driver is to let them drive your vehicle. If you are okay with it, then do so. You will have some peace of mind while on the road, and there will be no arguments or verbal battle and frustrations from both parties.

If you don't want them to drive your car, you can recommend that they use their own, ride with another, or tell them calmly and pleasantly to stop as they are stressing you out.

>>> Also check out: 7 types of annoying car passengers that you'll encounter

6. Take an online refresher course on distracted driving

It is advised to register for a driving class that covers the topic of how to deal with "distracted driving". That's a good idea if the drivers can go together with their partners who are always on the backseat. After this course, you can know how the brain process information and the extreme dangers of distracted driving.

Good news for car owners is that they can take free driving courses offered their car insurance companies. Contact them for more information and you can save a lot of money. 

7. Practice the art of ignoring  

If you have the willpower for it, try to ignore any comments about your driving. Just focus on the road ahead. However, if someone is shouting at you, being too loud, or poking at your body to get your attention, then you might resort to other tactics.

Learn the art of ignoring

While backseat drivers think they are just merely helping you drive securely and safely, what they are doing can cause more damage than good. How they negatively affect you can also influence the way you drive on the road. Make sure you don't forget who is controlling the wheel.

>>> Visit Philkotse.com for more useful tips and advice for smart driving.