Experienced drivers can develop bad steering habits. You’ll see these on common highways and dual-carriageways. It will shock how these drivers hold the steering wheel when cruising their cars.
I’ll paint out some of the bad ways drivers hold the steering wheel. Then I’ll demonstrate how to place your hands properly on the wheel.
Before we dive into that, let’s first understand the right sitting posture for the driver.
Sitting Posture and Placement Of Hands
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It’s important to know how to place your hand on the steering wheel, but it’s equally necessary to consider your driving position.
Some of you like to recline the car chairs where your hands are perfectly straight on the steering wheel. You’ll find that your hands will get fatigued with time in such a position.
To achieve a good sitting position, first, put your hands in the 9 and 3-clock positions. Your arms have to bend nearly 100 degrees, giving you the best control over your steering.
Many of you let the steering wheel slide in your hands and straighten itself when turning, indicating you’re not completely controlling the vehicle. To restore the wheel to its proper position, always keep your hands in the proper positions.
4 Bad Steering Habits
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1. Single Arm on Steering Wheel
When you drive fast, you may subconsciously place your one arm on the top middle of the steering wheel. Also, you may place both arms in the same position, thinking they fully control the car. You have no control over what happens if you make a corner or hit an unforeseen pothole in that position.
2. Holding the Steering 10 and 2
Another thing I’ve noticed is that some drivers are holding the steering wheel in the 10 and 2 positions. This is one of the methods some of you were taught in driving schools, although it is not recommended.
3. Position 8 and 4
Some driving instructors have advised you to grip the steering wheel in this position. The main purpose is to keep your arms away from the airbag as much as possible.
Even though it can protect your arms and body from the airbag, you don’t have as much control over the steering wheel. This increases the likelihood of an occurrence that causes the airbag to deploy.
4 . Hands Inside the Steering
Putting your hand inside the steering wheel is the most unsafe technique. I’ve seen individuals do this when driving at high speeds or negotiating a slow-speed turn.
If you hit a bump or a pothole and the steering becomes locked, you risk breaking your wrist. You may lose control as a result of this.
Most Annoying Driving Habits on Roads
Source: Pexels
Driving While Using a Cellphone
It is not a good idea to use a phone while driving. Because the phone can capture your attention and make you forget you are on the road, that can lead to a fatal accident. Doing something like that while driving a passenger vehicle is already unsafe.
Driving While Drowsy
Drowsy driving is typical when a driver is driving on the road for lengthy periods without resting. That can cause fatigue. Drowsiness can make the driver impaired on the road, leading to accidents. You need proper rest when going on a long-distance journey.
Neglecting to Check the Blind Spots
Accidents on the road are all too common, especially when drivers fail to check their blind zones. It is essential to double-check that you are not driving in the blind area of another person. It is good to check blind spots before joining traffic or moving lanes.
Tailgating
Some drivers are unaware of how it is unsafe to be near a car in front. Because if the car brake fails or stops suddenly, there’s a high chance they’ll knock the other car from the back.
Leaving extra distance between cars is, in my opinion, one of the simplest and most successful strategies to minimize the frequency of incidents on the roads.
FAQs
How do I know if my car needs power steering fluid?
You may want power steering fluid if your steering wheel feels difficult to turn. The steering wheel should not produce any noise. As soon as it produces loud noises, it is necessary to examine the amount of power steering wheel fluid present in your car.
What causes steering difficulty?
Low air pressure can make the steering wheel difficult to maneuver. This can be caused by incorrect tire pressure. Your vehicle’s tires should have been inflated to the manufacturer’s specified PSI. Front-end alignment is another factor.
What is the most common steering problem?
One of the most prevalent problems drivers face is a lack of power steering fluid. Your vehicle’s power steering fluid may need to be replenished to maintain the smooth operation of the hydraulic power steering system.
Why does my car feel weird when I turn?
If you hear a strange noise or experience increased difficulty when turning, the power steering belt or pump is most likely broken. Steering may be problematic due to a lack of lubricant in the steering system or a poor calibration of the front suspension.
What is the root of aggressive driving?
It’s common for impatient drivers to be aggressive drivers. This indicates that they speed more frequently than other drivers. They wind up colliding with other vehicles, causing serious injuries.
What does road rage say about a person?
They think harshly and aggressively. They’re more prone to make snide remarks about other drivers or express surprise at how they drive. Their thoughts frequently shift to vengeance, which might include physical violence.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve understood how to position your hands, remember not to hold the steering wheel too firmly. Because if the steering wheel locks, your thumbs are at risk of being harmed.
The safety of our roads depends on the sobriety of all drivers. When driving quickly, you should pull your palm away from the 9 and 3 positions when changing gear. This also applies to drivers who are beginners.