Get a Grip on the Right Way to Hold a Steering Wheel

Summary

The video emphasizes the need to update driving techniques, particularly hand positioning on the steering wheel. While drivers were traditionally taught to place their hands at 10 and 2, advancements like power steering and airbags have changed recommendations. The 8 and 4 or 9 and 3 hand positions are now preferred, offering better control and safety. These positions reduce driver fatigue and the risk of injury from airbag deployment by preventing arms from being blown into the face in a collision. Adopting these new techniques enhances both comfort and safety while driving.

Takeaways

• 🚗 Many people have a preferred way of gripping the steering wheel, but it's time to update that technique.
• 🕒 The old recommendation was to place hands at the 10:00 and 2:00 positions.
• ⚙️ The 10 and 2 hand positions were useful for cars without power steering, making it easier to turn the wheel.
• 💡 With the availability of power steering, the new recommended positions are 8:00 and 4:00 or 9:00 and 3:00.
• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 The 9 and 3 position provides symmetrical leverage for better control.
• 😌 Many drivers find the 8 and 4 position less fatiguing compared to other hand positions.
• 💥 The 10 and 2 position raises safety concerns with airbag deployment, as it could push the driver’s arms into their face.
• 🛡️ Lower hand positions, like 8 and 4, reduce the risk of injury in a collision by moving the arms away from the driver’s face during airbag deployment.
• 🔑 Proper hand placement on the steering wheel improves safety and control while driving.
• 🚦 Adopting these lower hand positions helps increase driving control and minimize injury risks in case of accidents.

Q & A

What is the traditional way of gripping the steering wheel while driving?

The traditional way of gripping the steering wheel is with hands positioned at 10:00 and 2:00.

Why was the 10:00 and 2:00 grip the recommended technique in the past?

The 10:00 and 2:00 grip was recommended because early cars lacked power steering, and it was easier to initiate a turn by pulling down from a higher hand position.

How has the availability of power steering influenced steering wheel grip recommendations?

The widespread availability of power steering has led to a change in recommendations, suggesting lower hand positions for better control and less fatigue.

What are the new recommended positions for gripping the steering wheel?

The new recommended positions for gripping the steering wheel are at either 8:00 and 4:00 or slightly higher at 9 and 3.

What is the advantage of the 9 and 3 grip position?

The 9 and 3 grip position offers the advantage of symmetrical leverage, which can be beneficial for some drivers.

Why is the 8 and 4 grip position considered less fatiguing?

The 8 and 4 position is considered less fatiguing because it allows for a more relaxed grip and better weight distribution on the steering wheel.

What safety concerns are associated with the old 10 and 2 grip?

The old 10 and 2 grip raises safety concerns because if a steering wheel-mounted airbag deploys, it's more likely that the driver's forearm will be blown into their face.

How do the lower hand positions on the steering wheel affect safety in case of a collision?

Using lower hand positions on the steering wheel increases control and decreases the chance of injury in a collision, as the arms are more likely to be blown out to the sides rather than into the driver's face.

Why is it important to update our steering wheel grip technique?

Updating our steering wheel grip technique is important to align with modern vehicle convenience and safety features, which can enhance control and reduce the risk of injury.

What is the key takeaway from the script regarding safe driving?

The key takeaway is to use lower hand positions on the steering wheel to increase control and decrease the chance of injury, thereby driving more safely.