LEARNING TO DRIVE 17

4. See that the hand-brake is up, or in other words holding. The neutral and hand-brake is a must routine, otherwise if the car is in gear when the engine is started it will jump forward probably causing accidents.

CORRECT STEERING HOLDS FOR STRAIGHT DRIVING

MOVING OFF

Let us assume that you have switched on the ignition, ordinarily done by turning a removable key. You now need to work the starter, which is either a press button or pull-out knob or an additional turn of ignition key on the dashboard, for the engine to fire. There now remains the problem of moving off properly by the following steps:-

1. Depress the clutch pedal to its fullest extent and select first gear position. Move the gear selector to D (Drive) if the vehicle is automatic.

2. Release the hand brake lever. Remember that release is a bit more difficult than application because the lever generally held in by place by a ratchet, and it is necessary to pull the lever further toward the learner to release it.

3. Glance in your rear-view mirror and look around to see that It is clear before you move.

4. Apply slight, but steady pressure on the accelerator pedal, and at the same time let the clutch pedal return slowly to its normal position. About half-way between the down and up positions of the clutch, the car will begin to move. It should, in a proper operation, pull away without any jerk.

In the automatic vehicle, apply slight but steady pressure on the accelerator pedal and the vehicle will begin to move.

The car is now being driven in first gear and the gradual pressure on the accelerator is increased.

Remember to check your rear-view mirrors, wait until the way is clear and give the proper hand or indicator light signal before you attempt to move off.

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