Doors
Close. Lock. Locked doors are less likely to open in a crash.
Positioning
Passengers: Do not put any children under the age of 12 or smaller in stature in the passenger seat. If there is one thing that enrages me beyond words is when parents let their toddlers or young children stand on the passenger seat. PEOPLE, PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS. DO YOU NOT UNDERSTAND HOW DANGEROUS THIS IS!!!!!!!!!! Use a safety seat.Seat: Angle: We all have different physiques, therefore, whatever is most comfortable for you. Distance to controls: Not too far so that your limbs have limited movement. Not too close to the airbag. The further the better.
Seat Belt
The very FIRST thing to do is to put on your seat belt. This will prevent you impacting the dashboard or windshield in the event of a frontal collision, or being flung from the vehicle in the case of a side collision. Check that all other occupants have their seat belts on. Put on seat belt for even short trips. See Seat Belt for proper use.
Mirrors
A quick glance into the rear view and side mirrors to ensure that they are still properly aligned and not knocked out of position.
Dashboard
Make sure there are no items on the top of the dashboard: These can slide off and be a distraction or cause you to lose control if you try and catch it. Could reflect off the inside of the windshield and obscure your visibility.
Controls
Make sure there is nothing obstructing use of any of the vehicle controls. E.g., a soda can rolled under one of the foot pedals. Check that gear is in 'Neutral' or 'Park.' If a stick shift, press in the clutch. Note: If this is the first time that you are driving the vehicle, have a look at Tips before driving an unfamiliar vehicle.