Just looking for a bit of advice because I'm currently feeling like I never want to drive again! After over a year of lessons, I passed my test first time two weeks ago (3 minors). This seemed like a miracle because I was convinced I would fail. Since then, I've been out a few times by myself and a few times with my partner for extra practice. Our car was serviced this week and the garage put on a new handbrake.
Today, I made my first journey alone since then (15 minute trip along some main roads to the supermarket). However, twice when I was stopped at lights, the handbrake totally stuck and it took over 5 minutes to release it both times. This was a complete nightmare because there was a queue of traffic behind me - blasting their horns! No matter what I tried I couldn't release it for ages. The second occasion was even worse because I was stopped on an uphill slope at a really busy junction.
My partner says I'd obviously yanked the handbrake too high and didn't have the strength to release it. However, I'm now totally paranoid about doing this again. I don't know if it's just the difference between the handbrakes in the car I learnt in, my old one and this new handbrake! Should I not be pulling the handbrake so high? Even on a slope? My nerves are totally shattered and I don't want to risk ending up in that situation again. However, I'm 8 months pregnant and driving is going to be a necessity for me!
Any guidance appreciated :D