What should be checked when starting the engine?

When starting the engine of a vehicle, checking the fuel and lights is crucial for ensuring safe operation. Fuel levels indicate whether the vehicle has enough gas to operate effectively. Additionally, ensuring that the lights are functioning properly, including headlights, taillights, and turn signals, is vital for visibility and communication with other drivers. This helps prevent accidents by making the vehicle visible in low-light conditions and allows the driver to signal intentions clearly.

While checking the condition of the tires, oil levels, and brake condition are important for overall vehicle maintenance and safety, they are typically not part of the immediate checks every driver must perform just before starting the engine. The focus when starting the engine is primarily on ensuring that the vehicle is ready to operate without delay; hence, verifying fuel levels and that the lights are in working order is a top priority.