You may not think being a passenger in a car is something you need to think about, but the way you act in a vehicle can have a big impact on the ride for everyone in the car. Here are some tips on being a good passenger.
Don’t Be a Backseat Driver
Don’t try to take control of the ride or give orders to the driver. Unless the driver asks you, don’t tell them which way to turn or point out what they are doing wrong. This can put the driver under too much pressure and cause anxiety. If you have helpful information to give to the driver make sure you speak in a calm voice so there is no tension.
Let the Driver Choose the Music
The driver is in charge of the music. Don’t be tempted to change the station or scroll through the playlist to find something you like; let the driver tell you what they want to listen to. This is also the case for the volume. Some people like to blast the music when they drive while others find this distracting. Make sure the person behind the wheel is comfortable with the volume level.
Stay Awake
It is not polite to fall asleep when you are riding in the car with someone unless you are sick or extremely tired. As a passenger, you should keep the driver company and be there for help with directions if needed. This is very important when you are on the road at night. The later it gets the harder it is for the driver to stay awake too, so if you can help keep their mind occupied, it will be a great assistance to them as they continue driving. You can also keep an eye out for gas stations or rest stops when the time comes to fill up or take a break.
Only Use Your Phone When Needed
If it is just you and the driver in the car, you want to keep your phone calls to a minimum. Only take a call if it is important. It is distracting for the driver to have the person next to them talking to someone else and if you get loud it is even worse. When you do take a call make sure to keep your voice calm and quiet.
Be The Designated Text Reader and Writer
If the driver wants you to, you can read their texts for them and reply when needed. The driver might feel more relaxed if they know they won’t miss an important message if they have someone to keep an eye on their phone. They can concentrate on the road while you take responsibility for keeping up with their texts and calls.
There are a lot of things you can do while riding in the car to make sure you are a good and helpful passenger. Whether the driver is new or experienced you can make the trip easier for them until it is your turn to take over the wheel.
This photo, “Road” by Lara Eakins used under CC BY-NC 2.o. “Road” is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.
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