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(Music)
The very first thing to do when you get in the driver's seat
is to do your first 3 point checklist.
When that is done, you've got to get in a safe and comfortable position which gives
you maximum control when you are driving and won't tire you out by making you sit awkwardly.
(Comfortable?)
You don't want to be making adjustments once you are moving, so make sure you're
comfortable now.
The next routine of three is:
First: seat position.
You need to make sure you're not too close to the steering wheel. This is so if you are involved in a crash
you reduce the chances of being seriously injured by the steering wheel or the inflation
of the airbag.
Move the seat forward or backward so that you can push the left pedal all the way in
with your leg extended, and slightly bent at the knee but no closer.
Your arms reach the steering wheel comfortably while being bent at the elbow.
As well as moving the seat, adjust the angle of the seat if you need to.
Make sure you're in a comfortable upright position and can see over the steering wheel.
Adjust the steering wheel if you need to, so you can have a clear view of the dashboard
and can see over the top of the wheel.
Put on your safety belt every time you get
into a vehicle.
It's a legal requirement and an important habit to get into.
Some safety belt heights are adjustable, so if it feels uncomfortable, adjust it.
The big rear view mirror is for looking out
the back window without turning around. So centre it to give the largest possible view.
The side mirrors are for looking behind to
your right and left. Adjust them so that your own car is just in
sight on the inside edge, then just out of sight.
(Can you see everything?)
(Mmmm)
They should be pointing back at the road, so that you can see what's happening right
behind you, not angled up or down. In some cars you will have to do this manually.
Incidentally, though your mirrors are a vital part of driving, they don't give you a complete
view of everything that's going on behind you.
There are blind spots -- and we'll be learning how to deal with them in a later session,
appropriately called "Blind Spots"
So, these two routines need to happen every time you get in a car:
Second: