What Is the First Thing to Do When You Get in a Car?

Getting into a car might seem like an effortless part of your daily routine, but there are crucial steps you should take the moment you enter the vehicle. Whether you’re a new driver or someone who’s been behind the wheel for years, the first few actions you perform can significantly influence your safety, comfort, and driving experience. Let’s explore the proper steps to take when you get in a car, starting with the most important tasks.

Steps To Take When You Get Inside A Car

1. Ensure Your Safety: Lock the Doors

The first step after getting in a car is locking the doors. This simple action provides an added layer of safety, especially when parked in unfamiliar or high-traffic areas. Locked doors not only prevent potential intruders from entering the vehicle but also keep them securely shut in case of an accident, reducing the risk of them swinging open on impact.

2. Adjust Your Seat for Comfort and Control

Before you even think about starting the engine, make sure your seat is adjusted to fit your body. Here’s what to focus on:

  • Seat Position: Ensure you can comfortably reach the pedals without fully extending your legs. Your knees should remain slightly bent.

  • Backrest Angle: Sit upright with a slight recline, providing support for your back while keeping you alert.

  • Headrest Placement: Align the top of the headrest with the top of your head to reduce the risk of whiplash in case of a collision.

This step is particularly crucial for long drives, as improper positioning can lead to fatigue or strain.

3. Adjust Mirrors for Optimal Visibility

Blind spots are one of the leading causes of accidents. To minimize them, adjust your mirrors properly:

  • Rearview Mirror: Position it so you can see the entire rear windshield.

  • Side Mirrors: Angle them outward enough to barely show the edge of your car while maximizing visibility of the lanes beside you. This ensures you’re fully aware of your surroundings and can react quickly to other vehicles.

4. Buckle Up for Safety

Seat belts save lives—it’s as simple as that. Before starting your car, always buckle up and ensure all passengers do the same. Properly secured seat belts reduce the risk of serious injury during an accident by 50%. For families with children, ensure that car seats or booster seats are correctly installed according to their age, height, and weight.

5. Check the Dashboard for Warning Lights

Once you’ve adjusted your seating and mirrors, turn the key to the “on” position or press the start button without starting the engine (if you have a push-start vehicle). This action illuminates the dashboard, allowing you to check for any warning lights. Look for indicators such as:

  • Low Tire Pressure

  • Oil Level

  • Battery Status

  • Brake System Alerts

Addressing these issues before hitting the road can prevent breakdowns or unsafe driving conditions.

6. Familiarize Yourself with the Controls

Every car is different, so it’s essential to reacquaint yourself with the vehicle’s controls, especially if you’re driving a rental or borrowed car. Identify the following:

  • Lights: Know where the headlight, high beam, and fog light controls are.

  • Windshield Wipers: Locate and test the wiper controls, including the washer fluid.

  • Climate Control: Set the air conditioning or heating to a comfortable level.

  • Emergency Brake: Ensure the handbrake or electronic parking brake is released before driving.

7. Settle Distractions Before Driving

Modern vehicles come with numerous gadgets and technologies that can easily distract you. Take a moment to:

  • Connect Your Phone: If needed, connect your phone to Bluetooth for hands-free calls or navigation.

  • Set Your Destination: Input your GPS destination before starting the trip.

  • Organize Loose Items: Secure any bags or items to prevent them from moving around while driving.

This preparation keeps your focus on the road instead of fumbling with devices mid-journey.

8. Start the Engine and Check Gauges

Once everything is set, start the engine and let it idle for a few seconds. During this time, take another glance at the dashboard to ensure:

  • The fuel level is adequate.

  • The temperature gauge is within normal range.

  • All warning lights have turned off.

This quick check ensures your vehicle is in optimal condition to hit the road.

9. Assess Your Surroundings

Before moving the car, take a moment to assess your surroundings. Check for pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicles that might be in your blind spot or path. Also, ensure the area in front and behind the car is clear of obstacles.

10. Plan Your Exit Strategy

Finally, plan how you’ll exit your parking spot or driveway. If reversing is required, use the rearview camera if available, but always turn your head to look behind you for additional awareness.

Why Are These Steps Important?

Following these steps might feel tedious at first, but they quickly become second nature with practice. More importantly, they set the foundation for a safe, efficient, and enjoyable driving experience. Here’s why each step matters:

  • Safety First: Reducing distractions, securing yourself and passengers, and checking for mechanical issues lowers the risk of accidents.

  • Driving Confidence: When you’re comfortable and prepared, you’re better equipped to handle unexpected situations on the road.

  • Prolonging Vehicle Life: Regular checks prevent wear and tear, saving you costly repairs in the long run.

Conclusion

The first thing to do when you get in a car isn’t just one action—it’s a series of steps designed to ensure your safety and readiness for the road. From locking the doors and adjusting your seat to checking mirrors and gauges, each step plays a vital role in creating a secure driving environment. 

Next time you enter your vehicle, take a moment to follow this checklist. It’s a small investment of time that can make a significant difference in your driving experience.

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