How Should Beginners Steer the Wheel?
3 Answers
Here are some steering wheel techniques for beginners: 1. First, master a safe hand position on the steering wheel. 2. When turning the wheel, alternate your hands to steer. 3. When turning left, avoid using your right hand to reach across the wheel. 4. When driving at high speeds (above 90 km/h), avoid unnecessary movements of the steering wheel. 5. Always keep both hands on the wheel while steering. 6. Do not use your fingers to flick the steering wheel.
I often guide beginners in steering, focusing on safety fundamentals. When holding the steering wheel, place your hands at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions, as if holding a large disc—don’t grip too tightly or cross your hands. Turn smoothly and fluidly, coordinating hand movements without jerking or pulling hard. Keep your eyes on the target ahead while steering, not looking down at the wheel, to ensure the car moves straight. Especially when turning, slow down in advance, turn gradually, and gently straighten the wheel afterward to avoid sudden movements that could cause loss of control. Beginners can practice left turns, right turns, and U-turns in empty parking lots, starting at low speeds—below 20 km/h is safest. Stay relaxed, avoid tense shoulders, and take deep breaths to manage emotions. Regular practice builds strong muscle memory, boosting confidence once the basics are mastered. Steering is a fundamental skill—don’t overlook the details, as safe driving starts here.
When I first learned to drive, steering the wheel made me flustered. Keeping my hands fixed at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions, the instructor told me not to grab randomly. Turns should be smooth, with hands moving naturally—when turning right, push the right hand to the top and pull the left hand down, avoiding stiff movements. I often practiced in the neighborhood parking lot, finding empty spaces to practice left and right turns, driving slowly at around 15 km/h, keeping my eyes fixed on the target ahead without glancing around. After turning the wheel, it must be straightened to keep the car from veering. Common beginner mistakes include turning too sharply, causing the car to drift, or too slowly, risking hitting the curb. With repeated practice, I learned to control the force. I suggest beginners avoid speeding at first, focusing on mastering these basics, and having a companion nearby for encouragement helps. Once steering techniques become second nature, driving becomes smoother, handling various curves and emergency maneuvers on the road—safety always comes first.
