If there is an airbag in your vehicle's steering wheel, where should your hands be placed?

The ideal hand placement for steering, especially in vehicles equipped with airbags, is at the 9 and 3 or the 8 and 4 positions on the steering wheel. This positioning provides maximum control over the vehicle while reducing the risk of injury from the airbag deployment.

When a collision occurs, airbags deploy rapidly and forcefully to protect the occupants. If your hands are positioned at the 10 and 2 o'clock positions, they can be thrust upwards towards your face and head when the airbag inflates, increasing the risk of injury. By positioning your hands lower, at 9 and 3 or 8 and 4, your arms are better protected and you have improved leverage for steering. Additionally, this hand positioning allows for easier maneuverability and control, especially during emergency situations or evasive actions.

This recommendation aligns with modern driver safety guidelines and practices, which emphasize minimizing risks while maximizing vehicle control.