Buzz
Portrayals in Hollywood movies often exaggerate and misrepresent proper car steering techniques. This is likely because safe steering practices are not as visually striking. The fundamental aspects of safe steering involve keeping both hands firmly on the wheel and maintaining constant vigilance on the road ahead.
Essential Points to Note
1. Grip the steering wheel firmly with both hands positioned at either the “10-and-2” or “9-and-3” positions. Use both hands to turn the wheel in the desired direction.
2. When reversing, place your right arm around the passenger seat and position your left hand at the 12 o’clock position on the steering wheel. Keep an eye on the rear windshield.
3. Ensure that your seat is adjusted for comfort and offers a clear view of the road ahead.
Step-by-Step Guidance
Mastering the Art of Steering
Ensure a Secure Grip on the Wheel
Maintain Firm Control with Balanced Grip
Optimal Hand Positioning for Steering
Protecting Your Thumbs While Steering
Mastering Steering Techniques
Learn the Push-and-Pull Technique
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Transition to Rotational Steering. Rotate the wheel in the direction you want to turn your vehicle while maintaining a grip at 9-and-3 or 10-and-2. If the turn requires more than a 90-degree rotation, relax the hand directly above your crotch and maintain its position. Continue turning the wheel with your upper hand until it meets the lower hand above your crotch. Then, bring the lower hand up to the top of the wheel and continue rotating it downward to complete the turn.
- Utilize this technique for minor directional adjustments, such as lane changes.
- Prefer this method when driving on highways or other open roads at higher speeds.
- Rotational steering is sometimes known as fixed-input steering.
EXPERT TIP
Ibrahim Onerli
Driving Instructor
Driving Instructor
Expert Insight: The hand-over-hand technique provides better maneuverability compared to the push-and-pull method. Many drivers naturally adopt the hand-over-hand approach, which simply requires practice to become comfortable with.
Mastering Reverse Steering. Ensure the rear of your car is clear of obstacles by checking all mirrors. Place one arm around the back of the side-passenger seat and twist your upper torso 90 degrees for a better view through the rear window. Hold the steering wheel at roughly 12 o’clock with your other hand. To back the car up to its right, turn the steering wheel to the right, and vice versa.
- Keep in mind your limited view of the driver’s side of the car while in this position.
- If necessary, apply gentle pressure on the gas pedal, avoiding backing up too quickly.
- Do not rely solely on mirrors or rearview cameras for steering in reverse.
Ensuring a Safer Journey
Adjust Your Seat and Steering Column Correctly. Ensure they are set to a comfortable height and distance. Avoid positioning your seat too far back, which may cause you to lean forward to reach the steering wheel. Prevent unnecessary strain on your body, which could lead to fatigue and distraction, reducing your responsiveness.
- Your preferred grip may vary depending on your seat position; taller individuals may find the 10-and-2 grip more comfortable due to limited adjustment options.
Focus Further Ahead on the Road. Extend your vision at least half a mile to a mile ahead. Be vigilant for curves, hazards, or other factors requiring a change in direction. Anticipate turns in advance, giving yourself ample time to plan and execute maneuvers.
- When navigating tight curves with limited visibility, focus on the farthest visible point ahead.
- Trust your peripheral vision to detect sudden changes in closer proximity.
Consider Your Speed When Steering. Understand that steering at slow speeds requires greater physical effort. Expect to turn the wheel more in low-speed areas like parking lots, residential streets, and urban neighborhoods. Conversely, make subtle steering adjustments at high speeds, as even slight turns can lead to significant changes in direction on highways.
Minimize 'Dry Steering'. Avoid turning the steering wheel when the car is stationary to prevent tire and power-steering damage. Only do so when necessary, such as during parallel parking or K-turns.
Practice Safe One-Handed Steering. Maintain control of the vehicle while using controls other than the steering wheel. Operate functions like turn signals and gear shifts with your nearest hand while keeping the other hand on the wheel. Avoid adjusting the wheel position while driving.
Helpful Tips
Important Warnings
- Avoid gripping the wheel from underneath the rim with your palms facing you. This limits your arm's range of motion, reducing control over the car.
- Avoid releasing the steering wheel to allow it to spin back to its original position after a turn. This results in a loss of control over the car during crucial moments, especially if the wheel's alignment is off.
