Page 32 - Company Supplied Vehicles, Drivers' Manual v3

3.8 Finding the correct driving position

People who suffer with back pain may find it is more noticeable during and after driving
especially following prolonged periods at the wheel.

Here’s how to find the correct driving position:

• Sit right back in the driver’s seat so there is no space between your bottom and the
backrest of the seat.
• You may find that your ability to fully and comfortably depress the pedals has changed. If
so, readjust the distance from your seat to the pedals (known as seat reach).
• Check your reach distance from the steering wheel. To do this, fully straighten your arms
and rest them on the top of the steering wheel. If you are the correct distance from the
wheel, your wrists should be resting on the wheel with your hands dangling over the
wheel. If this is not the case, adjust your backrest recline angle (known as seat rake).
Ideally, your backrest should be reclined at a 10 degree angle. Your steering wheel may
also have depth adjustment to help you achieve this position.
• Adjust the seat height to give full and clear vision of the road.
• Adjust the head restraint height to ensure its base is level with the base of your skull.
• Adjust the height of the seat belt retainer to ensure the belt contacts evenly over your
collarbone and chest.
• Your driving position may be quite different now so you may need to readjust the position
of your external driving mirrors.

To minimise strain and injury:

• Think about your posture. Do not hunch over the wheel. If there is limited or no support
to your lumbar region fit a cushion or a lumbar support.
• Keep your chin in rather than sticking it out. Do not grip the wheel too tightly because it
will tense the muscles and add to stress. Relax your shoulders and keep your head
upright over your shoulders.
• Adjust the driving mirrors to suit your posture so you can use the position of the mirrors
to recheck your sitting position.
• Do not drive for long periods without a break. If you are on a long journey, make frequent
stops (at least every two hours). Take the opportunity to walk around to stretch your legs
and spine.

Commercial Drive4Life Handbook – January 2022 (Glen Dimplex Fleet Assistance – 01604 747269) Page 31 of 37