Getting In and Out of a Car Safely
Back up to the door frame
When you get to the open car door, turn around so that you're facing away from the car. Back up slowly until the backs of your legs touch the door frame.
Hold something stable
Reach back and hold on to something stable, such as the back of a seat or the dashboard. Don't use the open door or headrest for support. They might move.
Sit down slowly
Slowly sit down so that you are sideways on the seat, facing out the door. Be careful not to hit your head on the top of the door frame.
Turn to face forward
As you turn your body to face forward, lift your legs into the car one at a time. Use your hands to help lift your legs if you need to.
For a knee injury
If you have a knee injury, it might be easier to ride in the back seat.
Instead of lifting both legs in and facing forward after you sit, slide back on the seat so that your injured knee is resting across the seat. Try to position yourself so that you can wear a seatbelt comfortably.
Current as of: October 2, 2017
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Joan Rigg, PT, OCS - Physical Therapy
