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title: Driving Position
---

# Driving Position

## Adopting the Correct Driving Position

Before you start driving, you must ensure you are seated correctly so you can **use all the vehicle’s controls safely and comfortably**.

You should be able to:

- **Reach and operate all controls easily**, without stretching — for example, you should be able to press the clutch pedal fully without locking your leg.
- **Maintain a comfortable and secure grip on the steering wheel**, with your arms slightly bent and your elbows free to move.
- **See clearly ahead** and have an unobstructed view of the road.

## Adjusting the Driving Seat

Adjust your seat so it suits your height and build. Most driving seats allow you to change:

- **Rake** – the angle of the seat back
- **Position** – moving the seat forwards or backwards

Some vehicles also offer **height adjustment**.

Both the driver and front passenger should avoid sitting too close to the steering wheel or dashboard.

If someone else has driven the car before you, **always readjust the seat** before starting the engine.

> **Never adjust your seat while the vehicle is moving.**

After adjusting, check that the seat is **securely locked in place** — listen or feel for the locking mechanism. A loose seat is dangerous.

Once seated, **check that the parking brake is applied** before proceeding.

## Adjusting the Steering Column

Many vehicles allow you to adjust the steering column for comfort and control. You may be able to:

- Move it **closer to or further from you**
- Adjust the **angle of tilt**

When adjusting:

- Ensure the steering wheel **does not block your view of the instruments**
- Always **lock the adjustment mechanism** once finished
- **Never adjust the steering column while the vehicle is moving**

## Adjusting the Head Restraint

Head restraints are designed to help prevent **neck and spine injuries (whiplash)** in the event of a collision.

For proper protection, adjust the head restraint so that:

- The **rigid part** is **level with the top of your ears or eyes**, and
- It is **as close to the back of your head** as is comfortable.

> An incorrectly adjusted head restraint provides little or no protection.
> 
> Do not remove it — it’s a **safety feature**, not a comfort accessory.

Remember: **it’s a head restraint, not a head rest.**

## Adjusting the Seat Belt

Always make sure your seat belt fits properly.

- The **lap belt** should sit **low across your hips**, not your stomach.
- The **shoulder belt** should lie **flat across your chest and over your shoulder**, not against your neck.

Many vehicles have a **height adjuster** for the diagonal strap — adjust it so the belt runs centrally over your shoulder and slopes gently **upward to the anchorage point**.

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