The correct seating position is essential for several reasons, especially safety.

It will ensure the driver is comfortable, reaches all the safety features comfortably, and is kept safe in an accident.

Here are the points to remember;

Do not sit too close

It is imperative not to sit too close to the steering. In an accident, the driver may risk injury from the airbags.

Back support

Ensure the driver is sitting upright and that the back is supported.

Try not to be too inclined on the seat. The driver should be able to reach the wheel comfortably.

Headrest

Some people like to remove their headrests, which is a bad idea.

If rear-ended, the headrest protects the neck from whiplashing backward.

Headrests should be two inches or less from the back of the head but never more than 4 inches.

The driver wants the head to hit the headrest, not the neck, so ensure the head is at ear level with the headrest.

Height

Ensure the seat is high enough for the driver to see the road and gauges. The driver can raise the car seat so that the hips are at the same level as the knees. If needed, sit on a cushion.

Pedals and Gears

Ensure the driver can reach the brake and accelerator pedals and, in a manual car, the gear shifter. Slide the seats forward until the knees are slightly bent while using the pedals. The driver should not stretch too much, but they do not want to be too close.

Mirrors

Ensure all mirrors are adjusted so the vehicle operator can easily see behind.

Steering wheel

The driver can adjust the height and tilt of the steering wheel to ensure a clear view. Ensure the top of the steering wheel does not go higher than the top of the shoulder.

The seating position is a critical part of vehicle control. If the driver is not sitting correctly, they may not have a proper visual or access to the safety controls.

Following are the guidelines for setting up the seat to get the correct driving posture:

• Support your back
• Do not sit too close
• Get the right height
• Adjust the car seat position to the pedals
• The heel of the foot should be rest on the floor
• Lean back to a comfortable position
• Set your headrest
• Adjust the car steering wheel position