What is the Cockpit Drill and why do I need to know it?
The cockpit drill is an exercise carried out at the start of a lesson to set
the car up for the driver, it consists of Doors, Seat, Steering, Seatbelt and
Mirrors. It is abbreviated as the D.S.S.S.M routine.
We use this routine whenever we get into a car for the first time, as a
Learner driver it will be the first thing you are taught and also the first
thing you will do at the start of each lesson.
The routine is set out in a specific way so no to have to do things twice,
i.e. if you were to set your mirrors first then move you seat, you may need to
change your mirrors again.
- Doors
-
Before you start your engine you must check that all doors are closed and
locked as appropriate.
- Seat & Steering
-
You should adjust your seat so that you have a good view of the road and
that all of the controls are within a comfortable reach. You should also
adjust your headrest so as to prevent whiplash in event of an accident.
- Seatbelt
-
It is your responsibility to ensure that all occupants of the car are
wearing seatbelts, you are LEGALLY reponsible for passengers under
14 years of age.
- Mirrors
-
You should adjust the centre and door mirrors for maximum rear view.
