Know Your Vehicle & Get Into Position

Familiarize yourself with your vehicle before you take it out. Today's vehicles come in many varieties, each with its own features, such as:

• Anti-lock brakes
• Four-wheel drive
• Fuel ignition systems
• Traction control and stability control systems
• Technologies that help with steering, braking and/or accelerating (lane keeping, collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control)

Consult the vehicle owner's manual so you understand how each of these systems functions, how to use them correctly, and where their limits lie.

Be certain you know where every control and instrument sits and what each one does:

• Confirm that all warning lights and gauges are working
• Be alert to a warning light that remains lit after you pull away -- it may point to a serious problem
• Practise operating the key controls without glancing away from the road: headlights and high beams, heater and defroster, wipers and washers

Being able to work these essential controls by feel is an important part of driving.

Take care to settle into the right position behind the wheel:

• Sit high enough that you can see over both the steering wheel and the hood
• Your view should reach the ground 4 metres ahead of the vehicle (a firm cushion helps if you fall short)
• Keep your back straight and upright, with your elbows slightly bent
• Slide the seat until your feet comfortably reach the pedals
• A quick check: set your feet flat on the floor beneath the brake pedal -- if you manage that without stretching, your position is right

This holds you in the correct upright posture and gives you steadier control while manoeuvring.

When your vehicle comes with an adjustable headrest, set it to the correct height. For protection in a crash, the back of your head should line up directly with the middle of the headrest.

Make sure the front seat gives you enough space to drive properly and safely. Don't let passengers or belongings crowd your driving area.