Vehicle Equipment, Controls, and Operation
Before you move
Walk around the vehicle before driving: check tire condition and cold pressure, confirm that headlights, brake lights, and turn signals work, clear the windshield, and adjust mirrors. Florida requires headlights from sunset to sunrise, whenever visibility is reduced, and whenever the wipers are on. A working horn, mirrors, brakes, brake lights, and safety glass are required equipment; a defective or excessively loud muffler is a violation.
Belts, seats, and children
Seat belt use is primary enforcement in Florida: an officer may stop you for an unbelted front-seat occupant, and every passenger under 18 must be restrained no matter where they sit. Children under 6 must ride in a federally approved child restraint. Sit at least 10 inches from the steering-wheel air bag and set the head restraint so it supports the middle of your head.
Controls and braking
Know the pedals cold so you do not confuse them under stress, and know how anti-lock brakes feel: a pulsing pedal means the system is working, so maintain firm pressure and steer. If the brakes fail, pump them, downshift, and apply the parking brake gradually.
Parking on a hill
With a curb, turn the wheels toward the curb when facing downhill and away from the curb when facing uphill, then roll slightly so the tire rests against the curb. Without a curb, turn the wheels toward the edge of the road.
Dashboard warnings
A red warning light means stop safely and investigate; an amber light means service is needed soon.
Rule of thumb
Treat a red dash light as a stop sign for the car.