The cockpit drill (DSSSM)

By the end of this topic you can

• You can carry out the DSSSM checks in order without being prompted.
• You can adjust the seat so you can press every pedal fully and reach the wheel comfortably.
• You can set the head restraint to reduce the risk of neck injury.
• You can adjust all three mirrors to give the best view behind.
• You can make the car safe before starting the engine.

What you need to know and understand

• The Highway Code says you must make sure your seat and mirrors are adjusted correctly before setting off. Check the head restraint at the same time.
• The rigid part of the head restraint should be at least as high as your eyes or the top of your ears, and as close to the back of your head as is comfortable.
• You must wear a seat belt if one is fitted.
• Before starting the engine, the parking brake should be on and the gear lever in neutral (or P in an automatic).
• Mirrors do not show everything. There are blind spots that you must check by looking round.

DSSSM step by step

1. Doors: check every door is fully closed. A door on the first catch may rattle or a warning light may show.
2. Seat: slide the seat so that you can push the clutch (or brake, in an automatic) right to the floor with your knee still slightly bent. Set the backrest so your wrists can rest on top of the wheel with your shoulders against the seat. Raise the seat if needed so you can see clearly over the wheel.
3. Steering: if the wheel adjusts, set it so you can see the instruments and hold the wheel comfortably without stretching.
4. Seat belt: fasten it, make sure it is not twisted, the lap part sits low across your hips and the diagonal part runs across your shoulder, not your neck.
5. Mirrors: set the interior mirror to frame the whole rear window without moving your head. Set each door mirror so you see a small slice of your own car and plenty of road beside and behind.

Head restraint: the forgotten check

The head restraint is there to stop your head snapping back in a crash from behind. If it is too low it can act as a pivot and make neck injuries worse. Many drivers never move theirs, so check it every time the seat has been changed by someone else.

Making it safe to start

Before you turn the key or press the start button, check the parking brake is on and the gear lever is in neutral. Rock it side to side to make sure. In an automatic, the selector should be in P. Starting the engine may make people nearby think you are about to move off, and it can startle horse riders or pedestrians close by, so take a look around first.

When the engine starts, glance at the dashboard. Most warning lights should go out. If one stays on, ask your instructor what it means before going anywhere.

Common mistakes

• Sitting too far back and stretching for the pedals. You should be able to press the pedal fully without locking your knee.
• Adjusting mirrors after moving off. Do it while stationary so your eyes stay on the road.
• Setting the interior mirror by moving your head to one side. Sit in your normal position first, then adjust.
• Forgetting to check the gear lever is in neutral. The car may jump forward when the engine starts.
• Leaving the head restraint at its lowest setting. Raise it to eye level or the top of your ears.

Test yourself: The cockpit drill (DSSSM)

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• First Driving Lesson