Before you start the engine, safety begins here. A complete visual guide to setting up your environment for the perfect drive.
Two critical checks before you even sit in the driver's seat.
Ensure you have your valid provisional driving license with you. Your instructor is legally required to check this before your first lesson.
You must be able to read a car number plate from 20 meters away. If you need glasses or contacts, make sure you're wearing them.
The golden rule of driving preparation. Memorize this sequence to ensure you are safe, comfortable, and in control.
Safety starts before you even enter the vehicle. Always check your blind spots for traffic or cyclists before opening your door.
You need to be able to reach the pedals and controls comfortably without stretching. Comfort equals control.
Press the clutch pedal fully down with your left foot. Your leg should still have a slight bend at the knee.
Hips should be level with or slightly above your knees. Set the backrest so you are upright, not lounging.
The rigid part of the restraint should be level with your eyes or the top of your ears to prevent whiplash.
Your connection to the road. The wheel should be positioned so you can see the dashboard clearly.
Stretch your arms out in front of you. With your shoulders back against the seat, your wrists should be able to rest comfortably on the top of the steering wheel. This ensures your arms are slightly bent when holding the wheel, reducing fatigue.
"Clunk Click"
Don't forget your passengers. As the driver, you are legally responsible for ensuring any passenger under 14 is wearing their seatbelt.
Adjust your mirrors only after your seat and steering are set. If you move your seat later, you must reset your mirrors.
Position it so the horizon is in the middle, and you can just see a sliver of the car's left side.
Frame the entire back window. Frame the top and right edges of the window with the mirror edges.
Similar to the left. Ensure the horizon is center and a small portion of the car's right side is visible.
Before we start, let's learn the ABC of car control.
Right pedal. Controls engine speed. Operated gently with the right foot.
Middle pedal. Slows or stops the car. Operated progressively with the right foot.
Left pedal. Connects engine to wheels. Operated with the left foot (manual cars only).
The Cockpit Drill ensures that every time you drive, you are safe, comfortable, and ready for the road ahead. This routine will soon become second nature.
Drive Safe • Stay Alert