Extended driving—whether for work, in traffic or on long trips—puts heavy strain on the body and can trigger a range of health issues. Static posture, road vibrations and the stress of driving can cause muscle tension, back pain and skeletal problems.
Even if you don’t already suffer from back or knee pain, proper posture in the car is crucial. Poor seating position may lead to discomfort in the back, neck and shoulders, increased fatigue, reduced concentration and impaired visibility. Remember: a driver’s seat isn’t meant to feel like a couch, but to keep you alert and safe.
How to sit correctly:
- Adjust the seat so the backrest is at about a 100-degree angle, easing pressure on the lower back.
- Move the seat forward until knees remain slightly bent when pressing the gas pedal. A two-finger gap between the back of the knee and the seat edge is ideal.
- Seat height should allow hips and knees to align.
- With good posture, you can easily reach and turn the steering wheel. When extending your arm straight forward, your wrist should rest on the top of the wheel. Ensure the wheel’s position doesn’t block gauges or your view of the road.
Buckle up properly: Seatbelts save lives, but only when snug. A loose belt may let the body slide underneath in a crash, causing severe injury. Devices that lengthen belts are dangerous. In winter, thick coats interfere with belt fit and protection—remove them before buckling up.
Air conditioning and eye health: Dry air from the AC, in summer or winter, can irritate eyes, causing burning, redness and dryness. Point vents away from your face and change filters regularly to cut dust and allergens. Over-the-counter lubricating drops can help, and glasses offer better protection than contact lenses on long drives.
The role of music: Just as posture affects well-being, so does music. Rhythmic music can boost energy on long drives, while calming tunes ease fatigue—a major crash risk.
Research shows experienced drivers tend to speed up without music, while novices concentrate better without it. Loud, fast music especially distracts young drivers, raising accident risk by encouraging speeding and erratic lane changes. The tempo can alter time and space perception, pushing impulsive behavior.
Listening to music while driving isn’t inherently unsafe—but choosing the right style and volume matters.
- The writer is a researcher in healthy lifestyle and gerontology.