Can the steering wheel be moved when driving straight?
3 Answers
When driving straight, the steering wheel can be adjusted. Since the road surface for Subject 3 of the driving test is not completely flat and often has bumps, potholes, and slopes, even if the steering wheel is held steady, the car may still drift. Therefore, slight adjustments to the steering wheel are often needed to keep the car aligned. Here are some key points to note for straight-line driving: Hold the steering wheel lightly: The tighter you grip the steering wheel, the straighter the car will go—this is not true. In fact, holding the steering wheel lightly is more conducive to controlling the car. Make slight adjustments: When you notice the car drifting, small left or right adjustments to the steering wheel are sufficient, and remember to return it to the original position. Look far down the lane: During straight-line driving, looking far ahead makes it easier to drive straight and judge whether the car is drifting, allowing the driver to make timely corrections. Use peripheral vision to observe nearby reference points: To determine if the car is driving straight, the driver can also use peripheral vision to check whether the distance between a specific part of the car and reference points like lane lines or fences has changed.
Having driven for many years, I think it's normal to make slight steering adjustments while driving straight. Minor corrections help keep the vehicle centered in the lane, such as small turns to prevent drifting when there's wind or uneven road surfaces. However, too much movement will cause the car to veer, so the adjustments should be minimal. This is especially important on highways—keep a relaxed grip on the steering wheel and avoid tensing up. When fatigued, remind yourself not to doze off and cause major deviations—safety comes first. Regularly checking tires and the steering system can also prevent issues.
I often drive on long trips, and making minor steering adjustments during straight-line driving is part of the routine. Small corrections are common, like avoiding small stones on the road or compensating for wind effects—just keep the movements subtle. Remember to hold the steering wheel firmly but relaxed, as excessive turns at high speeds can lead to accidents. Additionally, developing good habits such as planning routes in advance and staying focused can help reduce unnecessary steering adjustments.
