What hand position is not best for driving?

Proper Hand Placement for Safe Driving

Maintaining control of your vehicle is crucial for safe driving, and hand placement on the steering wheel plays a significant role. While it may seem like a trivial matter, improper hand positioning can compromise your ability to navigate turns and quickly respond to emergencies.

Avoid Crossing Your Hands

One common yet hazardous practice to avoid is crossing your hands on the steering wheel. This technique may feel more comfortable or secure, but it severely limits your reaction time and increases the risk of accidents.

When your hands are crossed, it takes longer for your brain to send signals to the appropriate hand for steering. This delay can be particularly dangerous in emergency situations, such as when you need to quickly turn or avoid an obstacle.

Optimal Hand Position

Instead of crossing your hands, always keep them at the “9 and 3” positions on the steering wheel. This placement provides the most leverage and control, allowing you to turn the wheel swiftly and accurately.

Why 9 and 3?

The 9 and 3 positions offer several advantages:

• Increased leverage: Holding the wheel at these points gives you the most leverage to turn.
• Quick response time: Your hands are positioned to react quickly to unexpected events.
• Reduced wrist strain: Maintaining the 9 and 3 position helps prevent excessive strain on your wrists.
• Airbag deployment: If an airbag deploys, your hands are in a safe position to avoid injury.

Conclusion

Proper hand placement on the steering wheel is essential for safe driving. Avoid the temptation to cross your hands, as it significantly compromises your ability to control your vehicle. Always maintain your hands at the 9 and 3 positions for optimal leverage, quick response time, and overall safety.