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title: Getting Started
---

# Getting Started

## Preparing Yourself

Before driving on busy roads or in heavy traffic, you must first master the basic skills of **starting, moving off, and stopping**. Safe driving requires **full control** of your vehicle at all times. This means:

- Understanding and using all the controls correctly
- Coordinating hand and foot movements smoothly

You also need:

- A sound knowledge of the **rules of the road**
- **Respect** for other road users
- A **basic understanding of your vehicle**, so you can perform essential checks and ensure it’s safe to drive

Driving is more than just starting the engine and setting off — it’s about preparation, awareness, and control.

## Cockpit Drill

Before every journey, carry out the **cockpit drill** to ensure safety for yourself, your passengers, and others on the road.

Check that:

- All **doors** are securely closed and the **parking brake** is applied

- Your **seat** is properly adjusted so you can reach all controls comfortably and see clearly in all directions
- The **head restraint** is correctly positioned
- All **mirrors** are clean and correctly adjusted
- You and all passengers have **seat belts** fastened
- The **gear lever** is in **neutral** (or ‘P’ or ‘N’ for automatics)
- You have **enough fuel or charge** for your journey — if not, plan where to refuel or recharge

## Driving an Unfamiliar Vehicle

If you’re driving a vehicle you’re not used to, take time to familiarise yourself with its key systems before setting off:

- **Controls:** Learn where they are and how they operate
- **Drive system:** Know whether it’s front-, rear-, or four-wheel drive
- **Brakes:** If fitted with ABS, understand how to check and use it
- **Technology:** Be aware of features such as lane assist, adaptive cruise control, or blind spot monitoring — these aids can enhance safety, but you must know how to use them correctly

Refer to the **vehicle handbook** for guidance on anything unfamiliar.

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