The first thing that any new driver must do before driving an automobile is to become familiar with all of the automobile safety features and controls. Once you are completely familiar with your vehicle, you are ready to begin. Before pulling away in your car, however, be sure that it is completely safe for driving. Here is a list of points you should always check before starting the engine:

1. AIl books and coats should be placed in the trunk, so that you have a greater amount of room available for driving unhampered - a safety feature and a comfort feature combined.

2. Be sure that backseat of the car is clear. If suddenly, any loose articles in the back seat could be hurled to the front, and injury may result.

3. You should get into the car by the curb side whenever practicable. In some places it is an offence to open the driver's door in any way that creates a hazard to passing vehicles. In automobiles in which this is impractical, or in awkward situations, extreme care must be taken. Always approach the driver's-side door from the front of the car, so that you cannot fail to see oncoming traffic.

4. AII doors should be locked to help prevent them from flying open in a collision, and to keep anyone from forcing their way into your car if you stop in traffic.

5. Check to ensure that the parking brake is on to prevent any movement of the vehicle. The gear selector should be in Park before starting.

6. Make sure that signal lights function properly. (The car will have to be on to check if they are working properly.)

7. Adjust the ventilation; excessive hear will cause drowsiness, and poor ventilation may create a carbon monoxide hazard.

8. Adjust the seat so that you can reach all foot pedals comfortably. Also make sure that you have unobstructed vision at all angles. It may be necessary to use cushions to attain this.

9. Adjust all mirrors so that you can tell at a glance the positions of other vehicles on the road.

10. Fasten your seat belts. The car should not be put in motion until all belts are fastened and adjusted.

11. Check that the brake pedal has resistance when you press it. This indicates that there is sufficient brake fluid in the brake lines and that the brakes will function properly. If the hydraulic brakes do not function, do not attempt to get to a garage, but have the car towed there by a tow truck.

12. Be alert but relaxed. You are no longer a pedestrian. You are in command of a powerful machine that can give thousands of miles of service and satisfaction, but which is also capable of destroying life and property.

Preparing to drive

Getting ready to drive is an important event in a young persons life. Are you emotionally prepared to drive? Are you ready to concentrate all your attention on driving? Do you possess the necessary safe attitude for competent, efficient driving? Are you willing to overlook the mistakes of other drivers? If the answers to all of these questions are 'yes' then you are ready to begin.

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