The most effective position for your hands on the steering wheel is at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock locations. This hand positioning provides several advantages for safe driving. First, it allows for maximum control of the vehicle, as your hands are placed in a way that promotes stability and responsiveness during turns and maneuvering.
Additionally, this position keeps your arms slightly bent, which can reduce fatigue during long drives and allows for better airbag deployment in the event of an accident, enhancing driver safety. It is also easier to execute controlled steering adjustments while maintaining a balanced grip on the wheel.
In contrast, while the 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock position is also a common recommendation for some driving techniques, it can lead to more strain on the arms and is less favorable for airbag effectiveness compared to the 9 and 3 position. The positions at 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock are impractical and do not provide adequate control of the vehicle, while 8 o'clock and 4 o'clock can lead to awkward steering dynamics. Thus, the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock position strikes the best balance between control, comfort, and safety.