Check it Out

When riding in someone else’s car, check the seat belt to see how to remove it before you start out.  So many have different methods of unlatching and it’s good to be prepared in case you need to do it quickly.

Check door latches as well.  I once rode in a friend's Datsun 280Z.  When we got where we were going I couldn't find the door handle.  My friend watched me for a moment, then pointed at ankle level.  I never would have found it.  A newer SUV I drove has the door "handle" concealed as part of the door decor.  In an emergency every second counts.

In rental cars, check for the hood release and check out the filler access for the gas tank.  Some are quite tricky.

After once being stuck on the Santa Monica Freeway, heading west into the sun, with a filthy windshield, I would also suggest making sure your rental car has washer fluid.  Fortunately I had a bottle of water with me.  I pulled over and gave the window a wipe down with a Kleenex.