Turning on your windshield wipers, headlights, and turning signals also require you to remove one hand from the wheel. [2] X Research source These controls are typically located close to the steering wheel to minimize the time spent driving one-handed. Reversing the car is an exception to this rule.
”Feeling” the car through the steering wheel is another important reason to steer with both hands.
10-and-2 is better suited for older cars or any others with larger steering wheels and no power steering. 9-and-3 has become the new norm for modern cars equipped with power steering, smaller steering wheels, and airbags.
Hooking your thumbs under the rim while driving off-road may set you up for injury. Your tires could strike obstacles hard enough to jolt the steering wheel in your hand. [6] X Research source If you are driving on a paved road with your hands at 9-and-3, nestle your thumbs along the wheel’s spokes where they meet the rim.
When you are first learning how to drive, start with this technique to make turns, since it is a cinch to master. [8] X Research source Favor this technique while driving off-road or in dense areas with frequent sharp turns and heavy traffic. Doing so will give your hands freer access to such tools as your gearshift and turn signals. Also favor this technique with larger steering wheels and/or in cars without power steering. Push-and-pull is also referred to as the “shuffle” technique.
Use this technique for slight changes in direction, such as changing lanes. Favor this technique when driving highways or other open roads at higher speeds. Rotational steering is sometimes referred to as fixed-input steering.
Keep in mind that you will have a limited view of the driver’s side of the car while in this position. If possible, allow the car to roll backwards under its own momentum. If gas is needed, only apply a little pressure on the pedal at a time. Avoid backing up too fast. Do not rely on mirrors or rearview cameras alone to steer in reverse.
The positioning of your seat may effect which grip you find more comfortable: 9-and-3 or 10-and-2. Taller people, for instance, may find 10-and-2 most comfortable, due to the limits of how much they can adjust either the steering column or their seat.
If you are passing through a tight curve that significantly reduces your field of vision, always focus on the farthest point that you can see ahead of you. Trust your peripheral vision to alert you to sudden changes that appear closer to hand.
