Experts warn: Holding the steering wheel incorrectly can be more dangerous than you think

Years ago, driving instructors taught us that the "10 and 2" position, with the hands on the steering wheel pointing to 10 and 2 o'clock, was the standard safe way to drive. But that was before airbags were available on every steering wheel.

Now, with the advent of airbags, the recommended hand placement on the steering wheel has changed from the past. The development of modern technology allows airbags to deploy in a split second, at speeds of up to 360 km/h, so fast that the arms can be thrown back into the driver's face and chest, causing serious injury.

Therefore, if someone still has the habit of holding the steering wheel in the "10 and 2" position, they may be unwittingly putting themselves in an extremely dangerous situation every time they get in the car.

How to put your hands on the steering wheel correctly?

Stunt drivers who handle the most dangerous situations in action movies have long since abandoned the old way of holding the wheel and are sharing their secrets for safer driving. They advise people to opt for the "9 and 3" grip, but to prioritize placing their hands on the wheel in the "8 and 4" position.

The most obvious reason, according to stunt expert Jonathan Wessel and Hollywood stunt coach Bobby Ore, is that the "8 and 4" steering wheel position requires the driver to place their hands slightly lower on the steering wheel. This position keeps your hands away from the airbag deployment zone, significantly reducing the risk of airbag-related injury while still providing optimal control.

Jonathan Wessel says that placing your hands on the wheel in the "8 and 4" position helps your shoulders and arms relax, reducing muscle tension during long journeys. This position can be more comfortable than the "9 and 3" grip position that many drivers currently use, especially when driving long distances with less sharp steering movements.

In addition, placing your hands on the steering wheel in the "8 and 4" position also helps drivers react faster and more accurately in unexpected situations, such as avoiding animals crossing the road or handling sudden braking. "It helps you be ready for any situation on the road," Ore asserted.

"Shuffle Driving" - A Little-Known But Extremely Effective Technique

Not only do professional drivers change the position of their hands on the steering wheel, they also apply the “shuffle steering” technique to increase safety. Instead of turning the steering wheel in a cross-hand manner, this technique allows you to keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times while still being flexible in control.

For example, when you need to turn right, you pull the steering wheel up with your left hand, while your right hand slides up to receive it, then pulls it down – while your left hand slides down. This way, your hands are always coordinated, not crossed, not off the steering wheel, and most importantly, not blocking the airbag.

It should be noted, however, that the "9 and 3" steering wheel grip position is still recommended by many safety organizations and driving schools as the standard position because it provides a good balance of control and safety for most driving situations.

Choosing between “9 and 3” or “8 and 4” can depend on personal preference, comfort, and the type of vehicle you are driving. The most important thing is to keep both hands on the wheel in a position that allows you to control the vehicle safely and effectively, while minimizing the risk of injury in the event of an airbag deployment.

Absolutely avoid unsafe hand positions such as the 12 o'clock position or driving with only one hand in complex traffic conditions. Because sometimes, just a small habit can make the difference between safety and an accident while driving.