Preparing The Driver

Emergencies, by definition, happen suddenly with little time for evaluation and decision-making. You have to be prepared to act quickly to avoid a crash. A review of nearly 12,000 collisions found that more than 37 percent of drivers involved took no action to prevent or avoid the incident.

Think caution.

Get in the right frame of mind before you get behind the wheel. Never drive when you're emotionally upset or rushed. Your alertness level automatically drops around your regular bedtime. If you must drive at that time, stop each hour and walk around or wash your face with cold water. According to traffic safety authorities, lack of attention is a major contributing factor to auto crashes.

In the driver's seat.

Correct seat adjustment puts you in position to perform the gentle, smooth, precise movement necessary for safe motoring in inclement weather. Adjust your seat so you sit no closer than 10 inches to the steering wheel and can see the road ahead. This distance allows room to move your arms and reduces the chance of injury to the fingers, hands, and forearms if the air bag deploys. Shorter drivers may need pedal extensions to be able to keep this distance. Check mirrors and environmental controls before you start. Don't forget to buckle up and have all your passengers buckle up too.

Suit up.

Select clothing that provides comfort and freedom of movement. While heavy garments may be necessary outside the vehicle, they can restrict movement behind the wheel. Always come to a complete stop in a safe spot before removing a coat or gloves.

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